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Nigeria’s Esteemed Cyclist Ese Ukpeseraye Considers Withdrawal from National Representation
Ese Ukpeseraye, Nigeria’s trailblazing female cyclist at the Olympic Games, has hinted that she might cease representing her nation. This revelation comes amidst ongoing frustrations regarding unresolved travel logistics that have barred her from participating in key international competitions.
In a‍ post shared on her X page last Friday, Ukpeseraye stated, “Going forward, I will no longer don the jersey depicted in this image.” Her⁤ message reflects deep-seated dissatisfaction stemming from what she perceives as inadequate support from sporting authorities—factors she believes have led to lost opportunities.
Missed Opportunities Due to Lack of Support
Ukpeseraye faced a significant setback when she was unable to defend her title at the African Championship held in Kenya. She expressed disappointment over missing the World Championship in Zurich and lamented again not being able to participate in the current African Championship despite holding the top rank on the continent. In her words: “The officials responsible for arranging my travel fell short of their commitments,” illustrating a pattern of unfulfilled promises.
This isn’t an isolated incident; Ukpeseraye has previously voiced concerns regarding inadequate backing for athletes like herself.
The Struggle for Resources: A Personal Account
A recent interview with The Sun Newspapers revealed that during one of her events at the last Olympics, Ukpeseraye had borrowed a bicycle due to insufficient resources provided by officials. “I urge you to ask them what they genuinely supplied me for my road event since they claimed everything was taken care of,” she challenged skeptically.
On this note, she recalled how members of Germany’s track team suggested an appreciation post after lending her equipment and offered evidence via screenshots if needed. Frustration bubbled over as she commented: “Honestly, I am exhausted… It’s disheartening; they show little interest and it makes me furious. If this means I won’t represent Nigeria at future international events anymore, so be it; I’m relieved I’ve spoken out.”
A Stark Contrast Amidst Historic Achievements
This uproar stands‌ in stark contrast to prior excitement about Ukpeseraye’s landmark qualification for the upcoming 2024 Summer Olympics set to take place in Paris. Giandomenico Massari, President of the Cycling Federation of Nigeria (CFN), had earlier commended this historic achievement stating: “This marks Nigeria’s inaugural participation in Olympic cycling competition… I trust her potential to excel and uphold our national pride.”
The Broader Implications for Nigerian Athletics
Ukpeseraye’s contemplation about stepping back raises pressing questions about Nigeria’s commitment towards its athletes—particularly those engaged in lesser-known sports who often struggle under similar conditions.
Despite these developments receiving significant attention, neither responses have come forth from either the Sports Ministry or CFN concerning Ukpeseraye’s grievances.
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