Fast-rising Nigerian female para-athlete, Ogochukwu Ogili, has opened up about the struggles she faces in her journey to achieve her dreams but remains optimistic about becoming a role model for others with the right support.

In an exclusive interview with Sports247.ng, Ogili discussed her ambitions, the obstacles faced by physically challenged athletes, and the importance of avoiding performance-enhancing drugs.

Ogili, who began her para-athletics career in 2018, shared her motivation for joining the sport. “I was inspired after seeing a champion with the same disability as mine. I felt I could do better,” she said. “At that time, I was younger, but I believed I could achieve what they were doing.”

She has participated in several international qualifiers, including a 2023 competition in Morocco and the World Championship in Japan, although she couldn’t compete in the latter.

Ogili highlighted the hurdles she faces, such as the distance between her home and the training stadium, frequent relocations, and financial difficulties.

“In two years, I had to move from the East to Port Harcourt, and then to Lagos, which was hard to adapt to. Financially, it’s also tough because you need to go far before securing sponsorship or employment,” she explained.

Despite these struggles, Ogili remains committed to her training regimen, practicing four days a week and using her downtime to recuperate.

While acknowledging the efforts of government agencies and sports bodies in supporting para-athletes, Ogili called for more robust backing, particularly in international competitions.

“The government is doing what they can, but more needs to be done. For international trips, only one or two athletes are chosen. Other countries like Kenya and Senegal send teams of 20 or 30, while Nigeria sends just a handful, even though we perform just as well, if not better,” she emphasized.

Ogili aspires to become a role model for other athletes, using her struggles and eventual success to inspire others. “I want to be someone others look up to, an encouragement to people. I want them to say, ‘We knew her when she was struggling, and now things have changed.’ That will motivate others to push harder,” she said.

Ogili concluded by warning athletes about the risks of performance-enhancing drugs. “To avoid doping scandals, athletes need to be cautious about what they consume. Know what’s banned and stay away from it. That way, you won’t have anything to fear,” she advised.

With her determination and focus, Ogili is well on her way to making a name for herself and inspiring the next generation of para-athletes.