Nigerian athlete Offiong Edem has called for increased support for the nation’s athletes at the ongoing Paris Olympic Games, urging critics to be more understanding despite their poor start.

Nigeria faced a difficult start in the table tennis event on Saturday, with both representatives in the men’s singles, Aruna Quadri and Olajide Omotayo, exiting the competition after their first matches. Edem herself was defeated in her match on Sunday.

The boxing event mirrored these setbacks, with all three Nigerian boxers being eliminated.

Dolapo Omole was injured, Cynthia Ogunsemilore was suspended after testing positive for a banned substance, and Adams Olaore suffered a defeat.

The Super Falcons are also on the brink of elimination from the football event, having lost to both Spain and Brazil.

In an Instagram post, Edem expressed her disappointment over the criticism directed at Nigerian athletes. “It’s sad to note that many Nigerians fail to understand sports and how to develop them,” she wrote.

“Instead of offering constructive support, they sit behind their keypads and type away, pouring out their frustrations on athletes who silently suffer yet strive to be their best.”

Highlighting the significance of the Olympic Games, Edem added, “The Olympic Games are the biggest sporting event, and it’s a privilege to be here. All we need is support, not unnecessary criticism.”

She emphasized the unpredictable nature of sports, urging fans to “learn to understand that in sports, you win some and lose some. Stop criticizing and support Team Nigeria, whether they win or lose.”

Despite the setbacks, Nigeria’s last representative in the table tennis event, Fatima Bello, will compete against France’s Jia Nan Yuan and the Women’s Basketball team will face Australia, Monday.