- Chioma Ajunwa reveals minimal support from Nigeria in her historic 1996 Olympic gold medal win in long jump
- Ajunwa credits her success to Segun Odegbami’s help, criticizing lack of government support and proper athlete training in Nigeria
Nigerian track and field legend Chioma Ajunwa has revealed that she received minimal support from Nigeria in her preparation for the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, where she became the first Nigerian to win a gold medal. Ajunwa secured gold in the women’s long jump with a remarkable 7.12-meter leap, a historic achievement for the country.
Ajunwa credited her success to former footballer Segun Odegbami, who helped her secure the necessary training abroad rather than the support of Nigerian sports authorities. In an interview with Channels TV, she emphasized the lack of assistance from the Nigerian government and the athletics federation, highlighting broader issues in the country’s sports management.
“Winning the Olympics was the best thing to ever happen to me. I got to the Olympics; I never thought I might get the gold medal, but God being who he is, we thank God he gave it to me,” Ajunwa said. “I worked very hard, not with the help of Nigeria, but with the help of God and Chief Dr. Segun Odegbami, who took me outside the country to make sure I got good training.”
Ajunwa also criticized the lack of proper preparation and support for Nigerian athletes, stating that the federation’s failure to provide adequate training and monitoring hinders athletes’ chances of success on the world stage.
“To win an Olympic medal is not an easy thing. It doesn’t come as a mistake. Every country coming to the Olympics comes to win gold,” she explained. “For you to prepare, they give you four years, and you think it’s something you can manoeuvre and do within six months or three months? No way.”
Ajunwa emphasized the importance of consistent and monitored training, noting that athletes often train independently without the necessary support, ultimately affecting their performance. She urged Nigeria to make proper arrangements for the training and development of its athletes to ensure better outcomes in international competitions.