A sum of 1.7 billion naira (14 million U.S. dollars) has been approved by President Umar Yar'Adua for Nigeria's participation at the Beijing Olympic Games, according to the News Agency of Nigeria on Friday.

Nigeria's Minister of Sports, Abdurrahman Gimba said this on Thursday in Abuja, while addressing newsmen at the end of a closed door session with Federal Government top officials.

Gimba said Nigeria's Senate President, Senator David Mark will lead the team Nigeria to the summer games in China.

"Team Nigeria" is made up of about 82 athletes, 43 officials and five medical personnel.

The Nigeria federal government delegation will include Speaker of House of Representatives Dimeji Bankole.

The Sports Minister said Nigeria's contingent for the summer games are currently undergoing the final training in South Korea, in preparation for the competition.

Source: Xinhua