Yesterday, the Federal Government, through the Federal Capital Territory Administration, honoured some Nigerians who have distinguished themselves in sports.
Some of the sportsmen and women that were honoured include late football star, Rashidi Yekini, who was honoured for being the country’s first player to score a FIFA World Cup goal; former Super Eagles’ assistant coach, Daniel Amokachi, for being the youngest Nigerian player to feature at the African Cup of Nations; Chioma Ajunwa, for being the first Nigerian to win an Olympics gold medal; late international wrestler, Mike Okpala (Power Mike) and Dick Tiger Ihetu, for being the first Nigerian to win a world boxing championship title.
Designated streets in the federal capital were named after them for the sterling part they played in bringing honour to their fatherland through sports.
FCT Minister, Senator Bala Mohammed said major streets in Asokoro Extension, Guzape, Wupa, Wuye and Maitama Extension districts, as well as expressways and roads, would also be renamed in honour of President Goodluck Jonathan; Vice President Namadi Sambo; former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar; former Senate President, late Dr. Chuba Okadigbo; former speaker of House of Representatives and Katsina State Governor-elect, Aminu Bello Masari; former Chief Justice of the Federation, Justice Dahiru Musdapher; Business moguls, Femi Otedola, Aliko Dangote and several others.
Explaining the rationale behind the naming, the coordinator of Abuja Metropolitan Management Council, (AMMC), Reuben Okoya said that “street naming in FCT is done in accordance with standing guidelines, principles and criteria that ensure the promotion of national unity.”
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here to know the accomplishments of some of the footballers that were honoured.
