LAHORE: Arshad Nadeem, the Olympic gold medallist from the Paris Games, was greeted with a hero’s welcome upon his return to Lahore’s Allama Iqbal International Airport early Sunday morning. A large crowd of supporters, including many from his hometown of Mian Channu, Chak 101, gathered to celebrate their champion.
Nadeem’s parents and notable government officials, including Ahsan Iqbal, Khawaja Saad Rafique, Shiza Fatima, Faisal Khokhar, and Rana Mashhood, were present at the airport to honor the 27-year-old national hero. The reception was marked by a grand display featuring a Punjab Police band and a historic VVIP protocol provided by Lahore Police. Over 150 officers and personnel were assigned to ensure his security, with an elite convoy accompanying him throughout the journey. Upon arrival, Nadeem’s plane was greeted with a water cannon salute.
He was accompanied by his coach, Salman Butt, and Major General (Retd) Muhammad Akram Sahi, Vice President of Asian Athletics and Chairman of South Asian Athletics. The Lahore Traffic Police, under the direction of SP Munir Hashmi, facilitated smooth traffic flow on the roads leading to the airport. In recognition of Nadeem’s record-breaking performance at the Paris Olympics, President Asif Ali Zardari has directed the conferment of the Hilal-e-Imtiaz, a prestigious civil award. A special ceremony will be organized to honor Nadeem’s exceptional contributions to sports.
Nadeem made history by winning Pakistan’s first-ever Olympic gold medal in athletics, clinching the top spot in the men’s javelin throw with a record-breaking throw of 92.97 meters. His victory, particularly his triumph over defending champion Neeraj Chopra of India, has inspired the nation. Additionally, following Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s directive, a commemorative stamp titled “Azm-e-Istehkam” (Commitment to Stability) was issued on Pakistan’s 77th Independence Day, featuring Nadeem’s image in tribute to his achievement.
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