Nigeria @ 50: Kanu, Ajunwa, Igali get special anniversary awards

Sports circle is not left out of the Golden Jubilee celebrations, as three great Olympians and Sports icons were among those recognised by the Federal Government.

Those honoured at an elaborate ceremony held in Abuja include Nigeria’s most decorated footballer, Nwankwo Kanu, Policewoman Chioma Ajunwa and Dr.Daniel Igali, who were Thursday night in Abuja conferred with the Special Golden Jubilee Independence Anniversary Awards by President Goodluck Jonathan.

President Jonathan bestowed the honours on the distinguished sportsmen for their various outstanding roles and contributions to the development of the country through sports.
The gesture by Mr. President is a significant and important to the sporting family in Nigeria because often times, athletes perform at the optimum level with little or no recognition for their efforts.

Chioma Ajunwa it would be recalled in 1996, came from a four-year suspension and was nothing short of spectacular. Less than two months after her return, she finished fifth in her semi-final of the 100m at the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games on July 27 and then in the long jump final on August 2, she produced an amazing first round leap of 7.12m to win the gold medal.

Story By Monica Iheakam
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