Sports Minister: Why We Chose Saarbrucken, Germany For Team Nigeria’s Pre-Olympic Training Camp

As excitement builds with just nine days before the 2024 Olympic Games gets underway in Paris, the Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Enoh, has inundated that Team Nigeria chose to camp in Saarbrucken, Germany, due to the city’s climatic similarities with what is expected in Paris, as well as its proximity to the French capital.

The Minister also added that the foreign leg of camping was to help fine-tune technical preparations, as well as to prepare athletes mentally and physically for the rigors of the Games. He expressed his strong belief in Nigeria’s contingent and their ability to deliver podium performances against the rest of the world.

“The choice of Saarbrucken is strategic,” said Senator Enoh. “The city’s climate is similar to what our athletes will experience in Paris, and its proximity to the French capital allows for an easy transition. We believe this will give our athletes the best possible preparation.”

“Our athletes are training hard and are focused on achieving podium performances. We have high expectations, and I am confident that Team Nigeria will make the nation proud,” Enoh emphasized. “Local camping is also in full swing for our Paralympic team, ensuring they are equally well-prepared.”

Currently, basketball, boxing, table tennis, badminton, wrestling, weightlifting, and canoeing teams are in Saarbrucken.

The contingent has been sweating it out in the German city for about 10 days and will complete its two-week training tour before jetting out to Paris for the Games.

“Our athletes have shown tremendous dedication and resilience. Their hard work and the support from the government and Federations give me confidence that we will see excellent results,” He added.

“The foreign leg of our camping is crucial,” Enoh remarked. “It allows our athletes to acclimatize to conditions similar to those in Paris and provides a focused environment for intense training sessions.”

The Olympic Games will take place from July 26 to August 11.