Why Nigeria Borrowed Bike For Olympic Bicycle Race – Sports Minister, Enoh

Senator John Enoh, Minister of Sports Development, has addressed the controversy surrounding Nigerian cyclist Ese Ukpeseraye’s use of a “borrowed” track bike from a German team at the Paris Olympics.

In a statement on his social media handle explaining the bike controversy, Enoh explained that Team Nigeria initially qualified for a road race and prepared accordingly. However, two weeks ago, the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) reallocated an additional slot to Nigeria due to another country’s disqualification.

This unexpected opportunity required specialized equipment, which would take months to procure if purchased. To ensure Nigeria’s participation, the German team generously offered their bike to Ukpeseraye.

Enoh emphasized that Ukpeseraye’s post on the borrowed bike was misunderstood, lacking context. He commended the cyclist’s resourcefulness and thanked the German team for their kindness.

The minister’s clarification sheds light on the challenges and teamwork that have defined Team Nigeria’s Olympic journey.

Read the full statement:

“My attention was drawn to Ese Ukpeseraye’s social media post. After reading it and follow-up comments, I took action. Ese’s post seemed misunderstood, lacking context.

Team Nigeria qualified for one road race, prepared, and left for the Olympics. Two weeks ago, UCI reallocated an additional slot to Nigeria due to a country’s disqualification. This required different equipment, which would take months to procure.

The German team kindly offered their bike, enabling Ese to compete. I commend Ese’s resourcefulness and thank the German team.

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