Sports Minister Mourns Death Of Nigeria’s First Olympic Medallist, Maiyegun
The Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Enoh, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Nigeria’s first Olympic medallist, Nojim Maiyegun, who died on Monday at the age of 85.
Maiyegun’s death comes just days after the 60th anniversary of his remarkable achievement at the 1964 Olympic Games in Tokyo, where he won a bronze medal in boxing.
Competing in the Light Middleweight (71 kg) category, he shared the bronze medal with Poland’s Józef Grzesiak after both athletes lost in the semifinals, as per Olympic tradition.
In his statement, Senator Enoh offered his condolences to Maiyegun’s family and the entire Nigerian sports community, acknowledging the late boxer’s monumental contribution to Nigerian sports.
He said, “Nojim Maiyegun’s achievement in 1964 was not just a win for himself but a victory for all Nigerians. His legacy as a pioneer of Nigerian sports excellence will never be forgotten,
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of a true legend, a man who not only broke barriers but also set the standard for what is possible for Nigerian athletes on the global stage. His perseverance and spirit have inspired generations, and we are committed to honoring his memory by continuing to support and develop sports in Nigeria. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.”
Maiyegun made history as the first Nigerian to win an Olympic medal, as his success paved the way for future generations of Nigerian athletes and marked a significant milestone in the country’s sports history.
Maiyegun’s life and achievements remain a source of inspiration for many, highlighting the importance of resilience, dedication, and national pride.
His passing is a significant loss to Nigeria and the global sporting community, and he will be fondly remembered as a trailblazer who set the stage for future Olympic successes.
U.S. Open: Djokovic Defeats Albot To Book Second Round Place
By Taiwo Ibrahim
Novak Djokovic opened his U.S. Open campaign with a 6-2 6-2 6-4 win over qualifier Radu Albot in the first round on Tuesday.
Three weeks after winning the singles title at the Paris Games, Djokovic produced a routine performance to brush aside Albot.
He earned a record 78th win at Arthur Ashe under a closed roof.
Djokovic said he was not aware of the record before the match.
He said: “I was not aware of it, to be honest with you, It’s definitely the loudest stadium we have in the history of our sport. The night sessions are the best in the world here.
“I wanted to kick start the tournament in the right way and I think I did, some ups and downs which I think is normal, getting the rust off your shoulders coming off a different surface and the Olympic Games.
“I haven’t played on hard courts for six months, so I’m still finding that groove, finding the tempo on the court.”
He will face compatriot Laslo Djere in the second round on Wednesday.
Djokovic, who won the first of his four US Opens in 2011, improved to 30-7 on the season.
Over his Grand Slam career, the 37-year-old is 62-1 versus players outside the Top 100 and at the US Open he is 41-0 against players outside the Top 50.
Sports Minister Mourns Death Of Nigeria’s First Olympic Medallist, Maiyegun is first published on The Whistler Newspaper
