Athletics Governing Body Clarifies on Scheduling Clash of National Trials with Salah Celebration

The Board of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), has again clarified on scheduling conflicts between it’s National Trials and Salah celebration in the country.

According to the Federation, there was no intention to undermine the celebration whose date clashes with the trials that will be used to select the nation’s athletes for both the African Senior Championships in Douala, Cameroon and the Paris Olympics.

This clarification becomes necessary following steps by some individuals to paint the AFN as a body that does not have regards for the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) in the country.

The AFN had earlier fixed June 26-28 for the National Trials, only for the Confederations of African Athletics (CAA) to announce a new date of June 21-26 for the African Senior Championships in Douala.

Since the AFN is using the National Trials to pick Nigerian athletes for the Cameroonian competition, there is a need to conclude the event in Benin City at least, two days before departure as majority of the athletes are foreign-based.

As soon as the African Senior Championships end in Douala, the athletes will on 1st July embark on training tour overseas ahead of the Paris Olympics.

Amidst the crowded schedule, the AFN pleaded with the Muslim faithful, particularly MURIC, to bear with the federation.

In a proactive move, the AFN has put in place adequate measures for all athletes, both Muslims and Christians, to enjoy the Salah celebration before coming to the Stadium to compete.

To go with the merrymaking, the AFN has concluded arrangements for food, drinks and rams for slaughter so that everyone will feel the impact of the celebration.

The Federation again, apologises for any inconveniences this clash in date might cause the Muslim faithful.