By Aderonke Ojo
Joshua Aliyu, founder of Apex Elite Sport and Fitness Hub, says inadequate training facilities are the biggest challenge confronting gymnastics in Nigeria.
Aliyu spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) after Apex staged its first in-house gymnastics assessment on Saturday at Moshood Abiola Stadium, Abuja.
He expressed pride in the performances recorded in spite of challenges, describing the event as the club’s inaugural assessment for Apex gymnasts.
The maiden competition featured 29 participants, including 27 girls and two boys, competing across multiple levels.
Twenty gymnasts, including 18 girls and two boys, competed in Levels 1 to 3, while nine girls participated in advanced Levels 4 to 8.
“This has been a long time coming, and we are super excited. We prepared for this over a month ago,” Aliyu said.
He recalled scheduling challenges in December 2025, noting banners and certificates still carry the original Nov. 30 date, but the event fulfilled the club’s vision.
“We are thankful to God, our supporters, parents, and our amazing gymnasts who put in energy and commitment,” he said.
Aliyu praised his team of coaches for tireless efforts in making the assessment a success. “I am super proud,” he said.
Speaking on athlete development, he said talent alone was insufficient without proper equipment and dedicated training facilities.
“No matter how talented you are, you can’t outperform someone better equipped. Nigeria has the talent, but facilities limit us,” Aliyu explained.
He noted the training venue was shared with other sports, affecting consistency and preparation for gymnasts.
“Our equipment is often moved or dismantled by people unfamiliar with it. Reassembly sometimes leaves parts missing or misaligned, affecting safety,” he said.
He added that in spite of these constraints, Apex had developed gymnasts capable of competing at Levels 8 and 9, a remarkable achievement.
“Imagine what they could achieve in a fully equipped, dedicated gymnastics facility. They would do wonders,” Aliyu said.
Rating performances at “200 per cent,” he praised the athletes’ passion, effort, and execution. “They performed with brilliance,” he said.
Acknowledging areas for improvement, Aliyu placed responsibility on coaches rather than athletes. “Where we didn’t get it right, that’s on us,” he said.
“Going forward, we will focus on cleaner routines, pointed toes, straight knees, and solid landings. We know we are good, but we can be better,” he added.
He stressed sportsmanship, resilience, and continuous improvement. “If you don’t win a medal, and judging was fair, work harder and come back stronger,” he said.
Looking ahead, Apex, according to him, is considering biannual assessments to accelerate athlete progression.
“Some gymnasts develop fast, and one annual assessment can slow them down.
“By God’s grace, the second edition will be even better,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo
