The minister of sports development, John Enoh, has urged awaiting athletes at the ongoing 2024 Paris Olympics to aim for podium finishes in their various competitions.

This is contained in a statement signed by the special adviser to the minister of media, Diana-Mary Nsan, on Saturday.

The minister urged all participants to embody the spirit of resilience and determination, representing Nigeria with pride and excellence in their games.

Mr Enoh has applauded the duo of Kanyinsola Ajayi and Favour Ashe for their remarkable performances in their respective heats on Saturday.

The national champion Kanyinsola Ajayi delivered a standout performance in heat five,  surprising many by defeating reigning Olympic Champion Marcell Jacobs with a winning time of 10.02 seconds.

Jacobs followed closely with 10.05 seconds, and Abdul Rasheed Saminu finished third in 10.06 seconds.

Ashe also made it to the semifinals, securing one of the fastest non-automatic qualifying spots.

She placed fourth in heat four with a time of 10.16 seconds, following Oblique Seville (9.99s), Hakim Sani Brown (10.02s), and Puripol Boonson (10.13s).

The minister commended both athletes for rising to the challenge.

“I encourage them to aim for further success in the semifinals and final, which will take place on Sunday evening.

‘It is important for them (athletes) to maintain resilience and be focused as they compete on the global stage,” he said.

Adaku Nwandu, a 16-year-old Nigerian swimmer, narrowly missed out on qualifying for the women’s 50m freestyle final.

She finished second in her heat with a time of 26.62 seconds but did not rank among the 16 fastest times needed to advance.

Mr Enoh congratulated Nwandu on her fine performance in Paris and expressed confidence in her potential for future achievements.

The 2024 Paris Olympics, which started on July 26, is expected to end on August 11.

(NAN)