Minister of sports development John Enoh has joined the nation in mourning Nigeria’s first Olympic medallist Nojim Maiyegun following his death on Monday.
Maiyegun passed on aged 85 in Vienna, Austria where he relocated to.
His death comes just days after the 60th anniversary of his achievement at the 1964 Olympic Games in Tokyo where he won a bronze medal in boxing.
Competing in the Light Middleweight (71 kg) category, he shared the bronze medal with Poland’s Józef Grzesiak after both athletes lost in the semifinals, as per Olympic tradition.
Enoh, in a statement signed by his special adviser on media Diana-Mary Nsan on Tuesday, offered his condolences to the Maiyegun family and the entire Nigerian sports community.
He also acknowledging the late boxer’s monumental contribution to Nigerian sports.
“Nojim Maiyegun’s achievement in 1964 was not just a win for himself but a victory for all Nigerians. His legacy as a pioneer of Nigerian sports excellence will never be forgotten.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of a true legend, a man who not only broke barriers but also set the standard for what is possible for Nigerian athletes on the global stage.
His perseverance and spirit have inspired generations, and we are committed to honoring his memory by continuing to support and develop sports in Nigeria. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time,” the minister said.
