Nigerian male cyclist Kurotimi Abaka has qualified for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
Abaka achieved this by winning a gold medal at the Class B tendam elite men’s category at the 19th African Road Cycling Championship in Ghana.
The 30-year-old has also called on the Nigeria Cycling Federation (NCF) to strive towards raising the standard of the sport in the country.
He said: “Nigerian cyclists, over the years, are confronted with challenges of getting standard bicycles, regular competitions and good welfare packages, which are important for their development in the sport.”
“Nigerian cyclists would appreciate the federation if it gives more attention to the development of the sport. Nigeria has talented cyclists, who, with adequate support, can be worthy ambassadors at international tournaments,” Abaka added.
Following Abaka’s triumph at the tournament in Ghana, NCF board member, Femi Thomas heaped praise on the Nigerian cyclist for his performance and for making the nation proud. He also added that the national cycling body will continue to map out ways to improve the quality of the sport in the country.
“The federation is already discussing with sponsors to help in taking cycling to greater heights.”
“We recently acquired a vehicle (Ford Range), which is part of our rebranding strategy to attract sponsors,” Thomas said.
Twelve cyclists, comprising 11 women and one man, represented Nigeria at the 19th African Road Cycling Championships in Ghana.
