The Federal Government of Nigeria has tripled the prize money award for Team Nigeria medallists at the ongoing Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
Making the announcement on Tuesday in Tokyo after Wrestler Blessing Oborodudu won Team Nigeria’s second medal of the Games, Federation and Elite Athletes Department of the Youth and Sports Development Ministry Director Simon Ebohdjaiye said the gesture is in appreciation of the impressive and historic performances put up by the athletes.
‘The gesture is to drive home the point that the Federal Government rewards superlative efforts,’ said the Director.
‘Gold medalists will now be rewarded with $15,000 while silver and bronze medal winners will each get $10,000 and $7,500 respectively. The earlier award was $5,000 for gold, $3,000 for silver and $2,000 for bronze.’
Oborodudu, who clinched the silver medal at the women’s 68kg freestyle, made history as the first Nigerian wrestler to win an Olympic medal.
Long jumper Ese Brume who officially won Nigeria’s first medal at the Games, a bronze will get $7,500 as a reward.