In a resolute declaration, Senator John Owan Enoh, Nigeria’s Minister of Sports Development, has reaffirmed his commitment to reinvigorate and reposition Nigerian sports.
His vision aligns with the Renewed Hope mandate set by President Bola Ahmed for sports development in the country.
Senator Enoh, during a chat with his media team, emphasized the significant strides made thus far.
He outlined the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development’s determination to propel sports in Nigeria to new heights of excellence and glory.
Despite facing challenges, the ministry remains steadfast in its mission to catalyze the advancement of sports across the nation.
One notable initiative led by Senator Enoh was the response to the exclusion of Nigerian match referees from the 2023 AFCON match officiating officials list.
In a proactive move, he declared a state of emergency on officiating. Collaborative efforts resulted in a roadmap to rejuvenate officiating in Nigeria.
As a result, Nigerian referees were included in the pool for international competitions sanctioned by the Federation of International Football Associations (FIFA) for the year 2024.
Senator Enoh’s leadership extended beyond football. Notable achievements were witnessed in other sports disciplines, including wrestling, boxing, and weightlifting at the African Games in Ghana.
These accomplishments underscore the ministry’s commitment to nurturing a culture of sports excellence at all levels.
Looking ahead, Senator Enoh expressed confidence in Team Nigeria’s readiness for the Paris 2024 Olympics. He sees this global event as an opportunity for Nigerian athletes to shine and make their nation proud.
The ministry is fully committed to supporting athletes and ensuring they have everything they need to excel on the world stage.
While assuring continued efforts to attract private investors into sports, Senator Enoh acknowledged the funding challenges faced by the sports sector.
Notably, the 2024 budget does not include provisions for the renovation of Ahmadu Bello Stadium. However, the ministry remains resolute in its pursuit of excellence and growth in Nigerian sports.
As Senator Enoh’s vision takes shape, Nigerian sports enthusiasts eagerly anticipate a brighter future, where talent flourishes, and the nation’s athletes continue to make their mark on the international stage.
