Atiku celebrates Nigerian athletes after historic three-gold medal haul at Dakar Youth Olympics
The former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has congratulated Nigerian athletes after Team Nigeria secured three gold medals in athletics at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games.
In a post on his X account on Tuesday, Atiku celebrated Rosemary Nwankwo, Gift Bright and Praise Ugoh, who won the women’s 100 metres, men’s 100 metres and women’s 400 metres events, respectively.
He described the achievement as historic, pointing out that Nwankwo and Bright won the women’s and men’s 100 metres titles on the same day. It was the first time Nigeria had recorded such a double at the Youth Olympic Games.
Atiku also congratulated Ugoh, who claimed the women’s 400 metres gold in her first final over the distance at the competition. Her victory made her the first Nigerian to win the event’s gold medal at the Games.
“These young Nigerians have shown the world what discipline, courage and self-belief can achieve. Their success is a reminder that our nation’s greatest wealth lies in her youth, and that when we invest in their talent, they will raise our flag on every stage,” Atiku said.
The former vice-president pledged to continue advocating support for young Nigerians, particularly through the provision of facilities and opportunities for talented individuals to excel.
He also congratulated the athletes’ coaches and families, describing their achievements as a source of pride for the country.