By Our Correspondent

The Nigerian Rowing Canoe   Sailing Federation has been given a marching under to win at least two gold medals  at the Tokyo  Olympics, even as Admiral  Festus Porbeni received  commendation for his sacrifices  and commitment over the years.

Speaking at the 2021 Annual Admiral Porbeni  Boat Race at the Jabi Lake, Abuja over the weekend,  the Minister  of Youth and  Sports Development Mr Sunday Dare said

“I commend Admiral Porbeni for his commitment to this annual race  and for making Boat Race popular in the last couple of years. With what  I have seen, we can now compete  with  the best in the world.His efforts  has not only  improved our ratings as the number one country in Africa, it has ensured that we qualified  for the Olympics and Paralympics in Para, Canoeing  and Para Rowing. Be rest assured of the Ministry’s commitment  and  support to actualize  the dreams of our athletes  to win laurels  for our fatherland. I have already marked Boat race to win two gold medals  for us at the Olympics.  We shall support your training  anywhere  in the country so that this dream can become a reality”

The Minister  further said” I’m most encouraged  by your zeal and commitment which is in line with our public private partnership initiative. The birth of a new sports Industry  Policy which is the final stage of assent  would bring about changes that would attract sponsors and take care of the welfare of athletes.This should motivate other Federations to key into the vision  of  the  Ministry  of Youth and sports Development.

According to Admiral  Porbeni ” The fruition  of this event, especially  at a critical  time in our national life is a testament to the commitment  and resolve of the board of the Nigerian  Rowing Canoe and Sailing Federation  to develop the sports. We shall not relent in this course.”

13 States, 2 clubs and few individuals took part in the event with States presenting only 6 participants for each event.