Outstanding sportsmen and women, as well as sports administrators have been pencilled to receive the National Merit Award to be given by President Goodluck Jonathan this year. Sports Minister, Alhaji Suleiman Yusuf disclosed that at least three sports personalities would receive national awards from the federal government.

Yusuf said he has forwarded the names of the expected beneficiaries to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim. He said the award was one way President Jonathan would use to motivate Nigerian youths to excel in sports.
In his words: “I have told the athletes in Maputo that they too can get national awards for doing the country proud.

Those we have forwarded their names for the award are accomplished ex-internationals, coaches and athletes.
“We want them to be rewarded for what they have done for the country.”

http://www.sunnewsonline.com/webpages/features/sportsonthehour/2011/sept/06/sportsbreak-06-09-2011-001.html