Okpochini Deborah Nwabuogor, a talented Nigerian female athlete, has received an outpouring of sponsorship offers after qualifying for the prestigious World University Games in China. Her school, the University of Port Harcourt, reportedly declined to sponsor her for the event, leaving her dreams hanging in the balance.
Despite the obstacles she faced, a ray of hope emerged when the Ndokwa Association, a benevolent group based in Germany, stepped forward to sponsor her journey to China.
Deborah's journey to the World University Games was marked by determination and talent. During the National University Games (NUGA) held in 2022, representing the University of Port Harcourt, she emerged as a gold medalist in the 100m freestyle event, achieving an impressive time of 59:90.
Her outstanding performance earned her the honor of being the sole Nigerian female athlete qualified to compete in the highly anticipated World University Games, scheduled to commence on July 25, 2023, in China.
However, her excitement turned into despair when her university declined to provide the necessary financial support for her travel expenses, totaling N3.5 million, despite her remarkable achievements.
With time ticking, Deborah's dreams of showcasing her talent on an international stage were at risk of being shattered.
Fortunately, hope was rekindled when the Ndokwa Association, a German-based Nigerian group, learned of Deborah's predicament through a news report.
Displaying commendable solidarity and generosity, the association expressed its eagerness to sponsor her journey to China, ensuring she can participate in the World University Games.
Louis Chukwuemeke Oyemike, a representative of the Ndokwa Association, conveyed their intentions in an email:
"Please her People's Association in Germany (Ndokwa Association) wants to urgently assist her. Can you please help us contact her school or contact her directly so that they can pay the bills for her to participate in the world university games."