Nigeria have been given a bizarre cash incentive to win Gold at the Olympics

Katsuya Takasu says he was touched by the team’s plight and wanted to contribute to their success. (Photo by Alexandre Schneider/Getty Images)

IN  one of the more bizarre stories to come out of this year’s Olympics, a Japanese plastic surgeon has promised each member of the Nigerian squad US$30,000 (R400,000) if they win Gold at this year’s Games.

Katsuya Takasu says he read the story of the team’s financial problems, that has seen the players at first battle to Brazil over a payment issue with their flight, and then boycott training when they were not paid their allowances.

Takasu says he was touched by the team’s plight and wanted to contribute to their success.

“I read about the financial problems affecting the team and I felt the need to make a big contribution,” he told BBC Sport.

“I am not doing this for media attention but to motivate a team with an indomitable spirit. I fell in love with the Nigerian team because despite all these problems they are in the quarter-finals of the Olympics.

“Whether they win or not, I will still donate something to help alleviate the challenges in paying their bonuses and allowances.”

Takasu sais he would give the players US$20,000 (R270,000) for a Silver medal and US$10,000 (R135,000) for bronze.

Despite their challenges, Nigeria topped their pool in the first round at the Olympics and face Denmark in the quarterfinals later on Saturday.

They must do so without leading scorer Ogenekaro Etebo though as he is injured.

Nigeria won the gold medal at the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta. Kickoff.com

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