The Nigeria Skating Federation (NSF) has said that over 2000 youths will feature in its first national championship billed for Abuja in November and December. It also disclosed that more than 20 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have signed in for the different categories of the championship.
Speaking at a media briefing on the championship at the weekend, NSF President, Major General Abdullahi Maikano, who is also the president of the Organisation of Military Sports in Africa (OSMA), said the championship, tagged ‘ABUJA2023,’ will hold from November 30 to December 3, 2023, within the MKO Abiola National Stadium and its environ.
Maikano said that the 42.5 kilometres Skating Marathon will flag off at the Airport Road to the City Gate in Abuja with the Federal Road Safety Commission and other security agencies monitoring the race.
“The winners of the National Skating Champions will represent the country at the Championship coming up in Greece after the event.
“We aim to take Nigeria’s flag into world skating arena and ensure that the sport becomes popular among the country’s youths and children,” he said.
He assured participants of their safety and security, while disclosing that winners in every category at the Abuja championship will get awards, prizes and trophies.
Maikano, who said that medical support and standby ambulance would be at participants’ disposal, disclosed that the federation’s technical team has pegged the age limit for the event at 17 years and above. He also said there are categories for children to show their skills at the championship.
He said: “All our previous events have contributed to the excitement and anticipation surrounding the first-ever National Skating Championship, ABUJA2023.
“They serve as a testament to the dedication and hard work of the skating community in Nigeria and set the stage for what promises to be a memorable and historic competition.’’
