by Isi Esene

In a rare display of self-criticism, the government of Nigeria today in London expressed its disappointment at the performance of the Nigerian contingent to the ongoing London 2012 Olympics.

The position of the government was articulated by the minister of Sports, Mallam Bolaji Adullahi at a press conference tagged ‘Nigeria Olympic Review’ at the Nigeria House in Stratford, London.

He lamented the athletes’ poor performance saying, “Our inability to win any medal so far is as disappointing for my team and myself and for all Nigerians everywhere.”

“But we must have the courage to see it as it is. This is a clear testimony to how far our sports has fallen behind,” he said.

The minister referred to Nigeria’s Olympic performance as an opportunity to learn and rebuild other than indulging in unproductive blame-game.

Expressing his ministry’s determination to make amends, the minister said the performance as “the necessary disequilibrium required for serious actions and drastic change. We will not allow this opportunity to pass”.

He concluded his critical review of Nigeria’s Olympic experience so far saying, “As you pose for a camera that is how you will appear. There’s no magic.”

That’s real-talk from the minister, we need to go back to the now over-used drawing board.