Cyclist Ese Ukpeseraye says athletes cannot train at the Nigerian velodrome because it is rented for religious events

Cyclist Ese Lovina Ukpeseraye, who recently represented Nigeria at the Paris Olympics, has highlighted that athletes are denied access to key sports facilities due to their rental for religious events. She noted that Nigeria has one of the best cycling facilities in Africa, but its use is restricted because it is often rented out for religious activities, which hinders training opportunities.

Ukpeseraye warned that the ongoing misuse of the velodrome could threaten the future of cycling in Nigeria. She explained that while the velodrome is one of the most expensive sports venues globally, its frequent rental for non-sporting events prevents cyclists from training.

She also shared that she had to borrow a bike to compete in the Keirin Sprint at the Olympics, a situation that drew criticism from Nigerians accusing authorities of mismanagement.

In response, Minister of Sports Development Senator John clarified that Ese Ukpeseraye’s post was misunderstood. He explained that Team Nigeria had initially qualified for a road race and prepared accordingly. However, two weeks before the Olympics, an additional slot for Keirin and individual sprint was allocated to Nigeria due to another country’s disqualification, requiring different equipment.