Goodwill
By Millicent Ifeanyichukwu
Lagos, April 5, 2018 (NAN) Commonwealth Games Lightweight medallist in boxing, Obisia Nwamkpa, has wished the nation’s representatives in the ongoing Commonwealth Games well as they compete in their various sports.
Nwamkpa told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos that the goodwill message was to identify with the athletes and to encourage them to put in their best.
NAN reports that Nigeria is among the 71 countries featuring in the Commonwealth Games, tagged “Gold Coast 2018’’ which began on April 4 in Queensland, Australia and will end on April 15.
Nigeria are taking part in Athletics, Boxing, Basketball, Weightlifting, Wrestling, Para-Athletics, Power-lifting and Para-Table tennis respectively.
“As a patriotic citizen, I just have to wish them well and cheer them because they are representing Nigeria and they need our good wishes and moral support.
“However, I must say that their general preparations falls below standard and nothing to compare to the experience of their opponents in the contest.
“But the good thing is that we are part of this Games, and the exposure our athletes will acquire will really help them in their individual careers,’’ said the Commonwealth Lightweight champion.
Reacting to Nigeria’s medal chances in boxing, Nwamkpa said, “I cannot predict anything because boxing requires uninterrupted programmes, regular competition and good welfare.
“These stages run for years for boxers to gradually adapt to the techniques involved which increases their medal chances, it is not a three month affair.’’
NAN reports that Nigeria finished eighth position with 36 medals (11 gold, 11 silver and 14 bronze) at the 2014 Commonwealth Games held in Glasgow, Scotland.
NAN also reports that Nigeria had made 13 appearances in the Commonwealth games since 1930 and had so far won 212 medals consisting of 61 gold, 66 silver and 85 bronze. (NAN)
MIL/GOM/PDE
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(Edited by Gregory Mmaduakolam/Peter Ejiofor)