Nigeria’s Olympics journey – community and support

“The child who is not embraced by the village will burn it down to feel its warmth,” says an African proverb that speaks to the heart of human needs — connection, support, and belonging. As Nigeria grapples with its performance in the Olympics, the proverb echoes a broader truth about what it means to compete on the global stage without the necessary backing. Since the start of the Summer Olympics in 1952, Nigeria has won 27 medals, including three golds, but the challenges faced by Nigerian athletes, from borrowing equipment to the lack of preparation, highlight a deeper issue: the absence of a strong, supportive village.

As we explore Nigeria’s Olympic experiences, we find key lessons that resonate beyond sports and offer actionable advice for anyone striving to succeed in their own endeavours.

Lesson 1 

Preparation, resources matter – more than talent

Nigeria’s sports minister, John Enoh, recently clarified the circumstances under which Nigerian cyclist Ese Ukpeseraye competed on a borrowed bicycle during a Paris 2024 Olympic race. This situation unfolded due to a last-minute reallocation of slots by the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), which left Ukpeseraye without the specialised equipment needed for the track race. Despite her talent and determination, Ukpeseraye’s performance was hampered by inadequate resources — a theme that has plagued Nigerian athletes for decades.

Preparation is often the unsung hero of success. It’s not just about having raw talent; it’s about ensuring that every detail is accounted for, and that the right tools are at your disposal. Ukpeseraye’s experience shows that even the best athletes can be hindered by a lack of proper preparation and resources.

Actionable advice: Success is not just about talent; it requires preparation and resources. Whether you’re an athlete, professional, or student, invest in the right tools and training. Seek out mentors, secure necessary resources, and plan ahead to ensure you’re not caught off guard by unexpected challenges.

Lesson 2

The power of community and support networks

Ukpeseraye’s situation also underscores the importance of community support. With the help of her European club and a German company, a track bike was secured for her at the eleventh hour. This act of solidarity speaks volumes about the power of networks and the importance of having a community that steps in when things go awry.

In life, just as in sports, we all face moments when our plans are disrupted by unforeseen circumstances. During these times, having a strong support network can make all the difference. Whether it’s providing resources, emotional support, or simply offering encouragement, a community can help you overcome even the most daunting challenges.

Actionable advice: Build and nurture your support network. Surround yourself with people who believe in your potential and are willing to lend a hand when you need it. Whether it’s family, friends, colleagues, or professional organisations, a strong network can provide the resources, encouragement, and connections necessary to navigate difficult times.

Lesson 3 

Resilience in the face of adversity

Nigeria’s struggles in the Paris 2024 Olympics — ranging from Ese Brume’s narrow miss in the long jump final to Tobi Amusan’s failure to qualify for the 100m hurdles final — highlight a recurring theme: resilience. Despite the setbacks, Nigerian athletes continue to compete and push forward, embodying the spirit of perseverance.

Resilience is a quality that everyone needs, regardless of their field. Life is full of challenges and setbacks, and the ability to bounce back from them is crucial for long-term success. Nigerian athletes, despite facing numerous obstacles, continue to push forward and represent their country with pride. This resilience is not just admirable — it’s essential.

Actionable advice: Cultivate resilience by embracing challenges as opportunities to learn and grow. Setbacks are inevitable, but how you respond to them will define your trajectory. Practice mindfulness, focus on the positives, and maintain a long-term perspective to stay motivated even when things don’t go as planned.

Lesson 4 

Importance of clear communication & transparency

In response to Ukpeseraye’s social media post about the borrowed bicycle, Enoh emphasised that the situation had been misunderstood due to a lack of context. This incident underscores the importance of clear communication — whether in sports, business, or personal relationships.

Clear and transparent communication is essential for building trust and ensuring that everyone is on the same page. Misunderstandings can lead to confusion, frustration, and missed opportunities. By being open and clear in your communication, you can prevent these issues and foster better relationships with those around you.

Actionable advice: Communicate clearly and transparently, especially in times of crisis or change. Ensure that all stakeholders have the full context and understand the reasons behind decisions. Effective communication builds trust and prevents misunderstandings, enabling smoother collaboration and more effective problem-solving.

Conclusion

Nigeria’s journey through the Olympics is a powerful reminder of the importance of preparation, community support, resilience, and clear communication. The struggles and triumphs of Nigerian athletes offer valuable lessons not just for the sports world but for anyone striving to achieve their goals in the face of adversity. As we reflect on these lessons, let us remember the wisdom of the African proverb: every child — every individual — needs the embrace of their village to truly flourish. Let’s be that village for each other, providing the support and resources necessary to turn potential into reality. Whether in sports, business, or personal life, the path to success is paved by those who are prepared, supported, and resilient.

business a.m. commits to publishing a diversity of views, opinions and comments. It, therefore, welcomes your reaction to this and any of our articles via email: comment@businessamlive.com