The Vice President, Visa West Africa, Andrew Uaboi, has explained why his firm chose Nigerian track and field athletes, Tobi Amusan and Goodness Nwachukwu, as part of its diverse roster of Team Visa athletes ahead of the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
The firm, which is a partner of the Olympic and Paralympic Games, yesterday, unveiled Amusan and Nwachukwu to bring the list of Team Visa athletes for Paris 2024 to 117.
The 2024 class is the largest group of Olympic and Paralympic athletes and hopefuls in the programme’s history and the most diverse, representing more than 60 markets and 40 sports.
“We are incredibly proud to welcome Tobi Amusan and Goodness Nwachukwu to Team Visa for the Paris 2024 Games,” Uaboi said. “Their presence on Team Visa not only represents the diversity of talent within the African continent, but also underscores Visa’s commitment to supporting athletes, who are dedicated to making a difference and inspiring their communities.
“We are proud to have them as part of us and look forward to witnessing the impact they will make both on and off the track and field,” Uaboi stated.
Amusan, a world champion, and world record holder in the 100 meters hurdles, made history in 2022 by becoming the first Nigerian athlete to win a world championship and set a world record in an athletic event.
She won back-to-back Commonwealth and African titles in 2018 and 2022 in the 100m hurdles and is also a two-time African Games champion.
Amusan said: “I am thrilled to be representing Nigeria at the upcoming Olympic Games Paris 2024. This is not just about me; it’s about every young Nigerian who dares to dream and every girl who believes she can break barriers. I am grateful to have the backing of Team Visa on this journey.”
Nwachukwu, a talented discus thrower claimed gold and set a new World Record with a throw of 36.56m at the 2022 Commonwealth Games. This incredible achievement surpassed her previous World Record of 32.95m, set at the 2021 World Para Athletics Grand Prix in Tunis.
“My journey has always been about transcending perceived limitations and demonstrating that true ability knows no bounds. It is my ambition to not only compete but excel at the games this year and I am excited to have the support of Team Visa,” Nwachukwu stated.
