Amusan Promises a Remarkable Paris 2024 Olympics as Ambassador Irele Honors Team Nigeria

Tobi Amusan, the reigning World Record holder in the 100m hurdles, has reassured Nigerians of a promising performance in the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris, France.

Despite being unable to defend her World title at the 19th World Athletics Championships in Budapest, Hungary, Amusan’s remarkable World Record time of 12.12 seconds, established in Oregon, U.S. the previous year, remains unbroken.

During a gathering at the Nigerian Embassy in Budapest, Amusan expressed her optimism, stating, “We came to Budapest to give our best, and we certainly did, even though the results might not reflect our best outing. The Paris 2024 Olympics Games will undoubtedly yield different outcomes.”

Elaborating further, Amusan, who holds records in the Commonwealth, Africa, and Nigeria for the 100m hurdles, extended her gratitude to the Nigerian government and its people for their unwavering support for athletics. She affirmed, “As I’ve mentioned, there are many more games ahead, and we are committed to bringing joy to the faces of our fellow countrymen.”

In her address, Her Excellency, Dr. Modupe Enitan Irele, Nigeria’s Ambassador to Hungary, Serbia, Croatia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina, lauded all Nigerian athletes and officials who participated in the 19th World Athletics Championships in Budapest. She commended their remarkable talents, remarking, “You are all gifted individuals, and I am immensely proud of your achievements.”

Addressing Tobi Amusan directly, Ambassador Irele acknowledged the endurance of her World Record, remarking, “Your World Record remains unchallenged, which means there are invaluable lessons to be drawn from this Championship. Each competition is unique, and as you return home, hold your head high. In the case of your World Record and the records held by other athletes, I pray that you will surpass your own achievements.”

In his expression of gratitude, Samuel Onikeku, the Technical Director of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), conveyed appreciation on behalf of AFN President Chief Tonobok Okowa and the board members for the warm reception received both at the hotel and the Embassy.

Rita Mosinde, Secretary General of the AFN, also extended her thanks to Ambassador Irele and the entire secretariat staff for their outstanding work.