Preparations for the Paris Olympics have been intensified as security teams meticulously combed the banks of the Seine River ahead of Friday’s opening ceremony, while top officials from the International Olympic Committee convened in the French capital.
Police, accompanied by sniffer dogs, meticulously inspected the six-kilometer route along the Seine, where up to 7,000 athletes are set to parade on nearly a hundred barges and river boats, watched by an estimated 300,000 spectators.
The waterborne procession marks a significant departure, being the first time a Summer Games’ opening ceremony will unfold outside a traditional stadium setting.
French law enforcement will be supported by counterparts from various nations, including Spain, Britain, and Qatar.
A rehearsal of the ceremony took place on the river during the weekend shielded from public and media view by security barriers to maintain confidentiality.
Team Nigeria’s athletes are expected to be part of the opening ceremony on Friday with a Captain and flagbearer expected to be named in the coming days.
A Spokesman for the International Olympic Committee, Mr. Mark Adams said at a news conference that although he hadn’t reviewed the complete plan, the show promises to be spectacular.
