National Assembly Issues five-day ultimatum to Nigeria Olympic Committee President

The House of Representatives Committee on Sports has issued a five-day ultimatum to Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) President, Engr. Habu Gumel, to appear before them.

This decision came after the committee refused to meet with the NOC members, led by Vice President Chief Solomon Ogba, due to Gumel’s absence.

Committee Chairman Honorable Ekene Adams Abubakar emphasised the necessity for Engr. Habu Gumel to explain Nigeria’s preparations for the upcoming Olympic Games. Chief Solomon Ogba attempted to excuse Gumel’s absence, citing an urgent IOC engagement, but this explanation did not satisfy the committee.

Honorable Ekene stressed the importance of Gumel’s personal appearance, highlighting President Asiwaju Ahmed Bola Tinubu’s commitment to sports and its impact on Nigerian citizens. The committee is determined to assess the NOC’s readiness for the games.

“Nigerians want to hear from him about the preparation for the Olympics. The president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has an interest in sports, and he demonstrated it in the one-year anniversary celebration. He wants to take the country to the next level using sports, which is a unifying factor in this country,” said Hon. Ekene.

He further added, “Sports is the only vehicle that gives the synergy to move the country forward. We have asked the Olympics committee to appear before the house by Thursday next week to brief us properly on the preparation for the Olympics. Anybody that comes here apart from the president on proxy will not be accepted. We felt we should invite him in person and let him respect the voice of the country to appear before the house next week.”