Dismal Olympics Outing Disappoints FG

The Minister of Sports, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, yesterday
expressed the Federal Government’s disappointment at the dismal performance of
Team Nigeria at the ongoing London 2012 Olympics.

Speaking at a press conference tagged “Nigeria Olympic
Review” at the Nigeria House in Stratford, London, the minister admitted that
poor preparations marred the country’s chances at the games.

“Our ability to win any medal so far is as disappointing for
my team and myself for all Nigerians everywhere.

“But we must have the courage to see it as it is.

This is a clear testimony to how far our sports has fallen
behind,” Abdullahi noted.

He, however, said he would not indulge in a blame game but
would take the dismal performance as “an opportunity to rebuild.”

The minister, who described the situation as a “crisis”,
said it was “the necessary disequilibrium required for serious actions and
drastic change. We will not allow this opportunity to pass.”

He stated, “Having been appointed Minister of Sports only
two months to the Olympics, I have had to learn very quickly.

“And I have not received a better lesson than in their last
two weeks of London 2012

“We have been hoping too much on luck, but for once, God is
telling us he’s not a magician.”

He praised Team Nigeria for putting up a brave showing at
the Olympics, noting, “Our athletes tried their best. We can only hope to build
on what they have done.

“According to a Yoruba saying, as you pose for a camera that
is now you will appear. There’s no magic.”