The nation stands united in support of the world champion hurdler against alleged unfair treatment 

 In a powerful display of unity and support, Nigerians from all walks of life have rallied behind Tobi Amusan, the renowned world champion and record holder in the 100m hurdles, as she contests a charge of missed drug tests. The vibrant athlete, who shattered the world record as a student athlete, took to social media to announce the allegations and has since received an outpouring of support, prayers, and well wishes from her fellow compatriots. 

Amusan, who has never failed a drug test throughout her illustrious career, expressed her shock and disappointment at the accusations, emphasising her innocence. Her management company, The Plug, has been actively engaging with the relevant authorities to ensure a fair investigation and resolution. 

Nigerians, known for their unwavering support of their sporting heroes, wasted no time in rallying behind Amusan. Social media platforms erupted with hashtags like #StandByTobi, #SupportForTobi, all aimed at bolstering her spirits and spreading awareness of the alleged injustice.

Celebrities, sports personalities, and fans flooded Amusan’s social media accounts with messages of encouragement and solidarity. Many shared personal anecdotes of her incredible achievements and the inspiration she has brought to aspiring athletes across the country. The support extended beyond social media, with various sports organisations and associations issuing statements of support for Amusan, vowing to stand by her throughout the entire process. 

The vibrant athlete, who has always been an advocate for clean and fair sports, has expressed her gratitude for the overwhelming support, stating that it has given her strength during this challenging time. Amusan has remained focused on her training and preparations, determined to continue representing her country at the highest level while proving her innocence. 

Sports analysts and legal experts have weighed in on the situation, questioning the validity of the alleged missed tests. They highlight Amusan’s impeccable track record and stress the importance of a fair investigation, taking into account any potential procedural errors or extenuating circumstances that may have led to the alleged missed tests. 

As the nation eagerly awaits the outcome of the investigation, one thing is certain: Nigerians are firmly united behind Tobi Amusan. Their unwavering support and belief in her innocence serve as a testament to the impact she has made on their lives and the pride they feel in her accomplishments. 

Amusan’s journey, both as an athlete and as she contests this charge, has become a symbol of resilience, determination, and the unyielding spirit of Nigerians. 

Access Holdings, a leading African finance institution committed to making a difference, has once again demonstrated its dedication to ensuring children have the chance to access quality education. Through its recent Polo Day, held at the esteemed Guards Polo Club in Windsor, United Kingdom, the group secured pledges for the construction of 100 classroom blocks in Nigeria.

The classrooms will go a long way in ensuring countless underprivileged children will have access to a safe and nurturing learning environment, ultimately inspiring them to dream, learn and become more.

In his remarks at the event, the Group Managing Director of Access Holdings, Herbert Wigwe, highlighted the significant milestones made in line with the organisation’sobjectives.

“Today, we stand on the shoulders of the remarkable achievements from previous editions. Each one, a testament to our commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of children in need of education and optimism. Together, we have made good progress in ensuring children are given a fair chance at a brighter future through quality education.

“Our collective and continuing support of free and equitable education for children reflects a view of our role as change agents that can help institute socio-economic development through responsible business practice and social initiatives. As such, we will continue to seek out innovative ways to garner resources and invest in the future of our society. We are part of the community and we support its wellbeing,” Wigwe stated.

Since the polo fundraising initiative was launched in partnership with Fifth Chukker and UNICEF, Access Holdings, through its flagship subsidiary, Access Bank Plchas seen to the refurbishment of several schools in Kaduna and has put over 12,000 children through continuous education. At the same time, 60 classrooms and a computer literacy building have been commissioned. The communities surrounding the schools are supported with boreholes for water, while households have been empowered with equipment and training to secure employment, stimulating economic and social development.

The completion of the new set of classroom blocks will represent a significant step in the organisation’s goal of attaining a student-to-class ratio of 35-40 students per class in line with the national target.

Restating plans to empower even more communities, the Managing Director, Access Bank Plc, Roosevelt Ogbonna emphasised that, “The Group’s true victory does not lie solely in the goals scored during the tournament, but in the lasting impact we can create beyond these moments.”

“We are proud to be a driving force in the pursuit of access to education and look forward to creating a world where every child has the opportunity to thrive,” he concluded.

The event brought together distinguished guests and personalities from around the world. Among the notable attendees were the Executive Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwoolu; 14th Emir of Kano, Khalifa Muhammadu Sanusi II, CON; 21st Olu of Warri, His Majesty, Ogiame Atuwase III; Chairman, Coronation Capital, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede; Chairman, Access Bank Plc, Paul Usoro (SAN); former Chairman of Access Bank Plc, Ajoritsedere Awosika, and more.

Women’s hurdles world record holder, Tobi Amusan, set a new meet record of 12.34 seconds to win the 100m hurdles event at the Silesia Diamond League on Sunday. The Nigerian sports icon stormed to the finish line first, edging out former world record holder, Kendra Harrison in a keenly contested race.

Following the win, the trackstar confirmed that she had run her season’s best despite her continuous battle with injuries. “It was not easy for me with injuries in my hamstring and my knee. I had to trust my coach and my work. I was just running. Honestly, I had no idea that I won when I crossed the finish line,” she said.

“I would not say that I executed the start perfectly, but the second part of the race was really good. I am most definitely building up for the World Championships, extremely satisfied with my season’s best,” Amusan added.

When asked about the world championships, Amusan told pressmen she anticipated “a battle to the finish,” and plans to take each race as it comes.

The world record holder emerged victorious on Sunday, days after retaining her title as the national champion in Benin city for the fourth consecutive time. The Nigerian athlete’s next challenge is a shot at world title defense in Budapest, Hungary, in August.