The governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, on Monday, felicitated world-class sprinter and new world record holder, Tobi Amusan, on her gold-winning feat and setting of new world record in the Women’s 100m Hurdle at the 2022 World Athletics Championship, held in Eugene, Oregon, USA.
In a statement by hi Chief Press Secretary, CPS, Kunle Somorin, on Monday, July 25, Governor Abiodun described Amusan’s feat as “a further confirmation of Ogun standard of excellence.”
He said, “It is heart-warming and a thing of pride to the nation and Ogun State.”
Recallig how his administration, during the COVID-19 pandemic, announced the adoption of the talented athlete, followin1 a proposal by the Minister of Youths and Sport, Sunday Dare, when he visited Ogun, Abioun said, “We are a state of many firsts. Here is another testimony to that fact. I am very proud of that feat in Oregon. She’s one of our major exports in sports and we are happy to be associated with her.”
The statement further quotes the governor as saying, “That was the second time Amusan would break the record on the night, improving on her 12.12s in the semi-final. It was previously set by America’s Kendra Harrison’s at 12.20s.
“On a night of many firsts, Amusan became the first Nigerian athlete to ever set a World Record in any event. It will also be the first time the Nigerian anthem would be played over the public address system during a medal presentation as the winner of an event.
“Amusan’s victory, will for her, be some sort of compensation for a disappointing outing in Tokyo last year, where she finished fourth in the final, despite being touted to take one of the medals.
“As she walks away with a $100,000 prize money, on behalf of the government and people of Ogun State, I congratulate one of our finest in the world of sport. I want to urge her to now turn her attention to the Commonwealth Games, beginning on Thursday, July 28, where she’s also the defending champion.
“As a government, we will continue to put infrastructure in place to encourage our budding talents in sports, while incentives will put in place to woo and encourage our stars.”
