John Mathani, leader of South Africa’s team at the 3rd Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) in Abeokuta, has said the team left Mowe Games village for tactical reasons.
Speaking at a news conference on Saturday, Mathani dismissed claims that the team left angrily, stressing it was a strategic decision.
The team arrived on Monday but moved to a hotel in Abeokuta on Thursday.
Mathani explained the move was necessary due to the long distance between the stadium and the Games village.
He said this distance could affect athletes’ performance and recovery, hence the decision to relocate closer.
He stressed that South Africa had no issues with Nigeria and had enjoyed cordial relations throughout the competition.
He praised the Nigerian team for their sportsmanship and thanked the public for their hospitality.
“We couldn’t finish here at 8 p.m., then travel an hour to sleep and return early the next morning.
“That would stress and dehydrate our champions unnecessarily.
“We chose a hotel five minutes from the stadium. Since then, we’ve won seven gold medals,” Mathani said.
He emphasised that Nigeria remains a beautiful and welcoming country to them.
“The CAA and Nigerian Federation have hosted us excellently. We are here for sport, not politics.
“Let politicians handle politics. Let sport belong to the sportspeople,” Mathani said.
Director-General of the National Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade, reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to creating a fair competition environment.
He also praised South Africa for prioritising the wellbeing and comfort of their athletes.
NAN
