Athletes, Others Celebrate Olympic Day in Lagos
Athletes, aerobic clubs and school children joined millions across the world on Saturday to take part in the 2023 Olympic Day celebrations, with “Lets Move” as the theme of the event, at the National Stadium in Lagos State, Nigeria.
President of International Olympic Committee (IOC), Thomas Bach, in a message read by Habu Gumel, President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), preached togetherness on Olympic Day celebrations.
Bach urged member associations to embrace sport as it embodies the spirit of togetherness as well as spreading joy to participants.
“The beauty of sports is that it inspires the world to move and it brings us all together as a community, no matter where we are or how we choose to move,” he said.
“When we do sport, it inspires us to always give our best. When we do sport, it keeps our mind and body strong and healthy.”
The Chairman of the Sports-for-All Commission, Ibrahim Abdul of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), called on Nigerians to show interest in global events.
”This is a significant event that promotes the values and goals set by the International Olympic Committee (IOC),” Abdul said.
The Secretary of Sports For All Commission, Augustine Odigie, said that this year’s theme for the Olympic Day celebration “Let’s Move,” sends a powerful message promoting physical activity and a healthy lifestyle.
”It is encouraging to note that 17 states in Nigeria participated in this year’s Olympic Day,” Odigie said.
”This number showcases the wide participation and interest in the celebration, further reinforcing the success of the occasion.”
Some Nigerian Olympians, led by Chioma Ajunwa and Henry Amike, were also part of the event.
Highlights of the Olympic Day include aerobics, dance, jogging and cultural displays. The participants were issued certificates of participation.
