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  • Enoh launches workgroup to tackle industrial challenges

    Enoh launches workgroup to tackle industrial challenges

    The Federal Government has moved to rejuvenate Nigeria’s industrial sector and position the nation as a global industrial leader by inaugurating the Industrial Revolution Work Group (IRWG).

    The group was inaugurated by the Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Owan Enoh, yesterday in Abuja. The IRWG aligns with the Presidential Council on Industrial Revitalization Roadmap, approved in October 2023 and chaired by President Bola Tinubu.

    Speaking at the event, Senator Enoh stated that the IRWG is tasked with bridging Nigeria’s current industrial challenges and its future potential through stakeholder engagement, evidence-based policy development, and consistent implementation.

    Senator Enoh stated that Nigeria is blessed with vast natural resources, an industrious and youthful population, and an entrepreneurial spirit that is second to none. However, he stressed that what the nation needs now is a deliberate, structured, and results-oriented industrial roadmap to harness these advantages.

    He outlined the IRWG’s core mandate as “Rejuvenating, Innovating, and Elevating Nigeria’s Industrial Future,” adding that the group’s primary purpose is to design, champion, and implement industrial strategies aimed at reviving dormant industries, empowering the next generation of manufacturers, and integrating Nigeria into the global industrial economy.

    Read Also: Enoh begins industrial tour of Lagos, Ogun

    Enoh stated that “this is not a pursuit of superficial aspirations but a quest for measurable, tangible, and paradigm-shifting achievements.”

    To realise its objectives, the IRWG will focus on revitalizing dormant industries by conducting comprehensive audits of once-thriving sectors that have stagnated, with tailored intervention strategies to revive them.

    Senator Eno noted that Nigerian industries must not only cater to local demands but also compete internationally, leveraging trade opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and other global trade alliances.

    He stated that no industrial revolution can succeed without reliable infrastructure, robust logistics networks, and a stable power supply, adding that the government will collaborate with key stakeholders to address these bottlenecks systematically.

    Eno also emphasized the importance of technology, innovation, and workforce development, stating that Nigeria must embrace digital transformation, automation, and research-driven practices to secure its place in the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

    Senator Eno underscored the need for Nigeria to transcend its role as a mere consumer economy, stating that, “We must produce, we must innovate, and we must lead.” He called on stakeholders—including government agencies, private sector leaders, global investors, and entrepreneurs—to support the IRWG’s mission, stressing that it is not solely a government initiative but a collaborative national endeavor requiring collective ingenuity, resilience, and ambition.

    In his keynote address, former Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Mr. Olusegun Aganga, lamented Nigeria’s long-standing challenges with industrial stagnation caused by inefficiencies, outdated policies, infrastructural decay, and global competition.

    However, he expressed optimism that the IRWG represents a strategic and pragmatic approach to overcoming these challenges.

    Aganga stated that industrialization is not just about factories but also about jobs, innovation, self-reliance, and economic resilience. He emphasized the importance of transforming Nigeria’s abundant natural resources into value-added products that serve both local and global markets, adding that the goal is to ensure that “Made-in-Nigeria” is not just a label but a globally recognized mark of quality and ingenuity.

    He stressed that the IRWG has a responsibility to identify and rehabilitate industries that once contributed significantly to Nigeria’s GDP, describing this task as both an economic necessity and a patriotic duty.

    According to him, “a revitalized textile sector means jobs for thousands, a functional steel industry means infrastructure development, and a flourishing agro-processing industry means food security.”

    Aganga further pointed out the vital role of the private sector in driving industrial transformation, stating that no government, no matter how well-intentioned, can singlehandedly achieve this goal.

    He noted that the IRWG’s composition reflects a collaborative approach, with the government acting as an enabler, the private sector as the engine of growth, and academia providing the knowledge and skills necessary for innovation. He urged industry leaders and captains of commerce to see the IRWG as more than just another initiative but as a national imperative that requires full participation, commitment, and accountability.

    Aganga added that collective success will be measured not in policies but in the factories that reopen, the jobs that are created, and the economic prosperity that follows.

    The success of the IRWG, Aganga concluded, will depend on clear execution strategies with measurable milestones, strict adherence to timelines and accountability frameworks, continuous engagement with local and international investors, and a shared commitment to industrial excellence.

    Describing the initiative as a decade-defining journey, he called on all stakeholders to support the IRWG and contribute to shaping a future where Nigeria is recognized globally for its industrial prowess.

  • Infrastructural renewal ‘ll boost economic opportunities, says Enoh

    Infrastructural renewal ‘ll boost economic opportunities, says Enoh

    Ongoing road and other infrastructural projects being undertaking under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu would unlock economic opportunities and improve quality of living of the people.

    Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Enoh, said ongoing road projects would reactivate hitherto dormant economic routes and enhance inclusive growth.

    Enoh, who spoke at the flag off of the Ikom-Etomi-Agbokim Waterfalls road project in Cross River State, said such project being initiated under the leadership of President Tinubu would address decades of challenges faced by the region, enhancing connectivity, tourism, and economic growth.

    He highlighted the historical and economic importance of the route, which links the four government-owned cocoa estates established during the late Michael Okpara administration.

    He emphasised that road project was not just about building a road but about addressing longstanding issues and fostering development for the people of Cross River State.

    Read Also: AFCON 2025: Gusau lauds Tinubu, Enoh,Tuggar after Libya fiasco

    “The importance of this route cannot be overstated. From boosting tourism at Agbokim Waterfalls to improving the livelihoods of cocoa farmers and local traders, this project will transform the region,” Enoh said.

    He noted President Tinubu’s unwavering support and transformational leadership, especially in naming the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, which includes the Ikom road, as a critical federal project, thereby cementing Cross River State’s inclusion in national infrastructure plans.

    He also commended the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), led by its Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, for taking decisive steps to redeem the region’s infrastructure legacy.

    He acknowledged the initial setbacks faced by the project, including poor contractor selection in 2012, and praised the current leadership of the NDDC for ensuring a fresh start with competent contractors and a renewed commitment to quality and timely delivery.

    The road is expected to significantly boost tourism in the region by improving access to the renowned Agbokim Waterfalls, one of Nigeria’s most famous natural attractions. Additionally, the project is poised to enhance economic activities, particularly in agriculture and trade, benefiting local communities along the route.

    The ceremony witnessed a large turnout of community members, stakeholders, and government officials, all united in their excitement and optimism for the positive impact the road will bring.

  • BREAKING: Tinubu redeploys Enoh, Uzoka-Anite, eight other Ministers

    BREAKING: Tinubu redeploys Enoh, Uzoka-Anite, eight other Ministers

    President Bola Tinubu has approved the redeployment of 10 Ministers in his cabinet. 

    The decision was confirmed by the presidency via his X handle (formerly Twitter), on Wednesday October 23.

    Those redeployed are: 

    * Dr. Yusuf Tanko Sununu as Minister of State Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction.

    * Dr. Tunji Alausa as Minister of Education. 

    * Barr. Bello Muhammad Goronyo as Minister of State for Works. 

    *Hon. Abubakar Eshiokpekha Momoh as Minister of Regional Development. 

    * Uba Maigari Ahmadu Minister of State for Regional Development.

    * Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite as Minister of State for Finance.

    * Sen. John Owan Enoh as Minister of State for Trade and Investment Industry. 

    Read Also: BREAKING: Tinubu nominates seven new Ministers

    *Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim as Minister of Women Affairs. 

    *Ayodele Olawande as Minister for Youth Development. 

    *Dr. Salako Adeboye as Minister of State for Health 

  • Eagles went through near-death experience in Libya, says Enoh  

    Eagles went through near-death experience in Libya, says Enoh  

    Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh has admitted that the Nigerian contingent for the ill-fated Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Match Day Four tie in Libya went through a near-death experience after being held under lock and key in a 20-hour ordeal at the Al-Abraq International Airport. 

    Receiving  the national team at the Abuja International Stadium  Airport  on behalf of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu., Enoh  commended their resilience in the face of adversity even as he  thanked the team for the show of maturity throughout the period.

    “For about 20 hours, you have gone through what I describe as a near-death experience,” Enoh explained. “The entire country was vested in the situation . 

    Read Also: Embracing the Lessons: Enoh offers  new dawn for Nigerian sports

    “Despite the hardships you experienced in Libya, you stood strong and acted very maturely. 

    “On behalf of the President and the good people of Nigeria, I welcome you home as i express profound gratitude for the team’s efforts on and off the field of play.

    “I reaffirmed  the government’s commitment to keep supporting the national team as they continue their journey for the AFCON 2025 tournament. 

    In this moment, more than anything else, your safety was our priority, and we are glad to see you complete,” he added.

  •  Embracing the Lessons: Enoh offers  new dawn for Nigerian sports

     Embracing the Lessons: Enoh offers  new dawn for Nigerian sports

    Few things challenge the spirit of renewed hope more than the idea of abandoning optimism about the future. The Paris 2024 Olympics may not have yielded the medals we all hoped for, but this chapter in Nigeria’s sporting history is far from the final word. Instead, it represents a turning point; one from which valuable lessons have been learned and a renewed commitment to excellence has been born. For the first time since 2012, Nigeria sent over 80 athletes to the Olympics and, unfortunately, returned without a single medal. This outcome, while disappointing, must be seen in the context of the broader challenges faced by our athletes.

    Years of administrative lapses, poor technical decisions, and the absence of early, rigorous preparations all contributed to the results. However, it’s essential to remember that these setbacks do not diminish the talent and potential of our athletes, many of whom came tantalizingly close to success.

    The Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh, in an uncommonly humble and forthright admission for a Nigerian official, took full responsibility for the outcome. His apology, while painful to hear, reflects a significant departure from the typical defensiveness often seen in similar situations. His honesty is a breath of fresh air and a clear indication that the issues that have plagued Nigerian sports for decades are being acknowledged at the highest levels.

    The truth is that success in global sports requires long-term planning, rigorous preparation, and a deep commitment to nurturing talent from a young age. Countries like the United States, China, and Russia consistently dominate the medal tables because they invest heavily in their athletes, often beginning their training from childhood. In contrast, Nigeria’s approach has been marked by hurried and haphazard preparations, with grassroots sports development all but neglected.

    Senator Enoh’s frankness about the state of Nigerian sports is a crucial first step toward genuine reform. The minister has highlighted the need to rebuild the machinery that once identified and nurtured young talent, such as the vigorous primary and secondary school competitions and the Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA), which were once breeding grounds for national champions.

    Read Also: FULL LIST: Eight Nigerians nominated for Ballon d’Or award

    Despite the challenges, there were moments of pride and resilience in Paris. Our athletes competed cleanly, with no reports of doping, and the emergence of a new star, such as Rena Wakama, whose remarkable coaching nearly led Nigeria’s female volleyball team to a historic upset against the American team, is a testament to the potential that exists within our ranks. It’s also important to recognize that Nigerian athletes continue to make their mark on the global stage, even if not under the Nigerian flag. Athletes with Nigerian roots or connections represented various countries at the Paris 2024 Olympics, achieving significant success. This underscores the immense potential that Nigeria possesses if only the right structures and support systems are put in place.

    Does Nigeria’s disappointing performance at the Paris Olympics validate the pessimistic views about our athletes? To think so would not only be unpatriotic but also unfair and illogical. The achievements of athletes with Nigerian roots or connections who represented other countries at the Paris 2024 Olympics tell a different story. Yemisi Ogunleye, born to a Nigerian father, claimed gold in the Women’s Shot Put for Germany—the country’s first in that event since 1996. Salwa Eid Naser, formerly Ebelechukwu Agbapuonwu before her switch to Bahrain in 2014, earned a silver medal in the 400m. Annette Echikunwoke, an Ohio-born athlete of Nigerian descent, secured silver in the hammer throw for the United States.

    Michael Olise, born to a Nigerian father, played a key role in France’s silver-winning men’s football team, while Samu Omorodion won gold for Spain in men’s football, with the potential to still represent Nigeria. Barthelemy Chinenyeze led France to gold in men’s volleyball, and Victoria Ohuruogu, following in her sister Christine’s footsteps, won bronze for Great Britain in the women’s 4x400m relay. Finally, Femi Bam Adebayo, also born to a Nigerian father, was instrumental in the USA men’s basketball team’s gold medal victory. These individual triumphs underscore the immense potential Nigeria could harness with more deliberate and consistent preparations under the Renewed Hope administration.

    Looking ahead, the Tinubu administration and Minister Enoh are focusing on renewing hope in Nigerian sports. This involves more than just words; it requires action. The government must engage experienced hands to ensure stability in leadership, provide consistent training for sports administrators, and eliminate the bureaucratic bottlenecks that have hampered progress. Implementing the national sports policy in its entirety is essential for the comprehensive development of sports across the federation.

    The Paris 2024 Olympics may not have delivered the results we desired, but they have provided invaluable lessons that will guide Nigeria’s preparations for future competitions. As the nation turns its attention to the upcoming Paralympic Games, there is a sense of optimism that Nigeria’s Paralympians will continue their tradition of excellence in powerlifting and athletics. Moreover, the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics and the 2032 Brisbane Olympics present opportunities for Nigeria to build on the changes now underway, transforming the disappointments of Paris 2024 into the foundations of future success. In this moment of reflection, let us not lose sight of the bigger picture.

    Sports historians will recall how the iconic Dutch soccer manager, Clemens Westerhof steadily built an almost all-conquering Nigerian senior football team over a period of five years. He took over the team in 1989; led them to a silver medal in Algiers ’90;  bronze in Senegal ’92 and gold in Tunisia ’94. Nigeria raced up to the fifth place in the rankings of the International Federation of Football Associations, (FIFA) that year and qualified for the very first time for the FIFA men’s senior World Cup in the United States. The road to greatness is often paved with setbacks, but it is how we respond to these challenges that define our future. With the right focus, commitment, and leadership, Nigerian sports can and will rise again.

  • A vote for Enoh

    A vote for Enoh

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu scored the bull’s eye when he released N9 billion to the country’s 84-member contingent for the 2024 Olympic Games held in Paris. The President also provided another N3 billion for the physically challenged athletes for their own Olympics which begins from August 28 to September 11, also in Paris. The President’s approval is the reason we aren’t faced with any scandal of embarrassing magnitude nor have we seen pictures of athletes, their family members, etc, pulling and carrying loads of their purchases out of shops while in France.

    No cases of doping. No organised protests by disgruntled athletes on competition days to lampoon the government. No sexual escapades between athletes and their officials. Athletes’ welfare packages came as promised. No doubt, the Sports Minister Senator John Enoh did his job by ensuring that no busybody made the trip to Paris. Enoh hasn’t spent one year in office, so he should be saved from being axed. Indeed, the traffic of sports ministers who have been replaced over perceived poor outings by our athletes is legendary, resulting in uncountable policy summersaults that have left the sport in a coma. One only hopes Enoh would have the guts to dissolve the sports federations and insist on having members who know their onions. The reconstitution of the federations would determine the quality of members for the next Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), whose members didn’t inspire the contingent to glory.

    Again, it is important to state that the 36 states’ governors and Abuja’s Minister pay the athletes’ wages and should take the big stick for under-developing sports in their abodes in the last six years. When last, and how regularly did the states organise sports competitions to keep the athletes in competitive form? The schools which these state governments control hardly have playgrounds for their pupils to recreate. Available spaces have been built up for schools under the guise of providing free education for the masses.

    The synergy of yore between States’ Ministries of Education and their Sports Ministry that oiled the operations for school sports, competitions such as the Principal’s Cup, Governors Cup etc, which created competitiveness during competitions in the different states is now comatose. It is the reason for the current search for athletes have been targeted at Nigeria-born kids in Europe, Americas and the Diaspora.

    The sports ministry warehouses the good athletes discovered from the states and fields them in the different competitions. The Sports Ministry owns no athletes. The dearth of sports in the States is the major reason for this fiasco in France.

    Expectedly, the long knives are out. We wait. But I ask, how much is N9billion when converted into Euros? Precisely 5.2 million Euros at the prevailing market rate. Compare this 5.2 million Euros to the fact that each gold medalist in Australia received the equivalent of $1 million for their efforts. What stands out here is that winning any medal for Nigeria at the Olympics should be the product of well-thought-out plans and good seed money to the Sports Ministry by way of a refundable loan over a period of time.

    This seed money from the government should be followed by asking the relevant bodies or individuals what has happened to the Sports Trust fund or is it the Sports Lottery Scheme or both? We need to reintroduce the Dinner with President Model where the number one citizen would announce the refundable overtime seed money just as he would tell the corporate firms in the country to support sports with good cash.

    Sports is a money spinner making it imperative for the President to inform the blue-chip firms what they stand to benefit from spending shareholders’ money in sports in the form of tax reliefs etc. It is at such sports business forum that the President would spell out the modalities involved to ensure that monies earmarked to improve the industry are not misapplied. Of course, the President’s speech would spell out measures for punishment, including prison sentences and forfeiture of stolen wealth. Such pronouncements would help embolden the firms to be involved in the new direction for the industry. No firm would commit shareholders’ cash without such reassurances revealed by the President, not even the minister.

    With the quantum investment from the corporate world, money to prosecute programmes for the athletes would be available beginning with the restoration of some of the moribund sports competitions in the country. With a solvent sports ministry, the National Sports Festivals would be held biannually and athletes discovered sent to periodic training camps within the country and overseas to participate at big sporting events such as the Olympics.

    Read Also: First Lady Tinubu hails education as key to Africa’s development

    It should be noted that big sports events have a circle of two years such as the Africa Cup of Nations, four years for the World Cup, the Olympics and the Commonwealth Games, making it absolutely impossible for the government to fund them adequately. Therefore, the government should reconstitute the Sports Lottery scheme or whatever name it may choose to mop up cash into its vaults for the training and expose of newly discovered sportsmen and women. The absence of competitions in the country has affected the development of the industry. We also need to improve on the curriculum of Colleges of Education, Teachers Training schools, where people can be trained as Physical and Health Education (PHE)  teachers, who would be posted to the primary, secondary, tertiary institutions to expose the young ones to the rudiments of different sports. Such an assemblage of youth can function as the nurseries for the industry.

    It is the government’s duty to make the citizenry healthy and strong. One of the ways to do this is to build sporting infrastructures fitted with supersonic equipment to train under the guidance of trained PHE teachers. Such recreational facilities could help remove the youth from societal vices and dissipate such energy in sporting events across the 774 Local Government Areas in the country.

    It is important to stress here that immediately after the 1984  Los Angeles Olympic Games, the Jamaicans went back home to do a rethink, using the American models of grooming athletes from the schools. The Jamaicans  sent their sportsmen and women to America. They even brought the good coaches in America to create the structures for growth in Jamaica which they stuck to religiously. The myth surrounding the Americans in world athletics (track and field events), especially in the sprints was broken by the Reggae boys and girls.

    It is important to state this fact for a country that had the world record holder in 100 metres hurdles for women, Tobi Amusan, what special grant did she get distinct from others? I ask repeatedly, when did Nigeria release funds for the athletes? Isn’t it common knowledge that if you go to the market late in the evening, you can’t get fresh fish again but scattered ones? Indeed, 18 months to the Olympics, the country’s potential medalists need to be given grants early to start specialised training with their coaches. This would help set the right motivation for our athletes to deliver on the biggest stage.

    Nigeria’s sports administrators should always look at the bigger picture of making the sporting industry the veritable ground for stemming unemployment in Nigeria. Is sports truly ‘play play’ as one governor once described it? Who will challenge us to see sports as a platform to bolster the country’s revenue? Doesn’t the government know that sports is the best vehicle for massive employment? You tell me.

  • No Excuse to Fail at Olympic, Paralympic Games, says Enoh 

    No Excuse to Fail at Olympic, Paralympic Games, says Enoh 

    Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh, has stated that Team Nigeria is primed for success and has no excuse to fail, as the nation counts down to the start of the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, France. 

    He emphasized that with the full backing of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led Government, which approved 100% of the Olympic budget, the onus now lies on the contingent to repay the President’s goodwill and make the nation proud.

     During his address at the official handover ceremony of the athletes to the Nigeria Olympic Committee and the Paralympic Committee of Nigeria in Abuja, Senator Enoh expressed high expectations and confidence in the abilities of the athletes.

    “We have no excuse to fail,” Senator Enoh stated. “The President has approved the entire budget, and it is now up to us to reciprocate this goodwill by making the nation proud. Expectations are high, and I have faith in the abilities of our athletes.”

    Read Also: Enoh assures on rock-solid preparations for Paris 2024

    Nigeria will be represented by 87 athletes participating in 12 sports at the 2024 Olympic Games.

     Additionally, Nigeria will participate in 4 sports in the Paralympic Games. The country has a strong history of success at the Paralympic Games, having won 40 gold medals, 19 silver medals, and 21 bronze medals, totaling 80 medals to date. The nation is set to extend its medal haul in Paris.

    Senator Enoh highlighted the importance of the athletes’ preparations, noting that the foreign training tours for different sports were approved for their physical, technical, and tactical readiness. 

    Breakdown of Team Nigeria contingent  

    Athletics: 35 athletes

    Women’s Football: 18 athletes

    Women’s Basketball: 12 athletes

    Wrestling: 6 athletes

    Table Tennis: 4 athletes

    Boxing: 3 athletes

    Canoeing: 2 athletes

     Weightlifting: 2 athletes

    Aquatics: 2 athletes

    Cycling: 1 athlete

  • Enoh assures on rock-solid preparations for Paris 2024

    Enoh assures on rock-solid preparations for Paris 2024

    Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh, has stated that the Ministry was putting the final touches on Team Nigeria’s preparation plans for the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympics, alongside the Nigerian Olympic Committee and other relevant federations.

    In a statement signed by the  Minister’s Special Aide Media Diana-Mary Nsan, Senator Enoh highlighted the extensive efforts being made to ensure Team Nigeria is well-prepared to compete for honours at the prestigious global event.

    “Different sports are already embarking on the foreign leg of their preparations. The Super Falcons are currently in Spain, and the Basketball team has also opened foreign camp. Other teams will follow suit in the new week,” the Minister stated.

    Senator Enoh emphasized the importance of pre-Olympic camping for athletes to achieve focus, fine-tuning, and a serene environment devoid of distractions. He expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support for Team Nigeria’s Olympic preparations.

    Read Also: CAA Championship: Enoh commends CG in Douala over hospitality

    “I want to use this medium to thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for all the support he has given Team Nigeria in preparation for the Olympic. he has always shown he has sports in his heart and we are more than glad to have him lead our nation at a time like this ” Enoh said.

    The Minister also highlighted the ongoing efforts of the Ministerial Podium Performance Committee, which has been providing regular reports and working closely with teams to ensure Nigeria’s athletes are in top form to secure medals at the Games.

    “The Ministerial Podium Performance Committee has continued to give me reports, and teams are also working with them to ensure we return with medals from Paris. We are confident it will be a good outing for our nation,” he added.

  • CAA Championship: Enoh commends CG in Douala over hospitality

    CAA Championship: Enoh commends CG in Douala over hospitality

    The Minister of Sport, Senator John Owan Enoh has commended the support of Nigeria Consul General to Douala Ambassador Francis Eyan over the warm hospitality received at the just concluded Senior Confederation of Africa Athletes Championship in Douala, Cameroon.

    The Minister made this known at his visit to the Consulate General of Nigeria, while addressing the press officials over the performance of Nigeria’s team in Cameroon.

    “I must commend the hospitality of the Consul General of Nigeria, Douala, since my arrival at the airport, the hospitality was encouraging,’ said Nigeria’s Sports minister, Senator Enoh.

    He continued: “The Consulate General of Nigeria in Douala is home away from home and I want to say big thank you for the warm reception and I am really proud of what you are doing in the Mission, everyone in the Mission is worthy to be here due to your level of professionalism and accord to people. This is very impressive.”

    The sport minister said his arrival in Douala was to motivate the Nigeria Athletes for greater outcome at the championship.

    “Motivation is key for every successful championship, I was in Cameroon to motivate the Nigeria Athletes and as we can see the results are encouraging as a nation. I am impressed by the result of the Nigerian athletes in Douala.”

    Speaking further on the challenges facing the Nigeria national soccer team after a wobble display against Benin Republic in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers that lead to the resignation of George Finidi.

    “It was a disappointing one, even though we don’t want to make some excuses but the bottom line is that we are in a resolution spirit. After the game in Benin, I summoned the Nigeria Football Federation, the coach and others but our agreement was to aim for resolution and make Nigerians happy. Of course, the coach has resigned but I want to assure every Nigerian that the NFF commitment, the sports ministry support and total support from every Nigerian can make things happen for the team. The hope of going to the World Cup in 2026 is not lost. Don’t forget that football is a unifying tool for Nigeria, we need that spirit now to ensure team quality irrespective of the challenges we are at the moment.”

    Read Also: Enoh, Elegbeleye  sympathize with  Doma FC  over  road accident 

    Advising the Nigerians living Cameroon, the honourable sports minister said: “It is important for every Nigerian living here in Douala, Cameroon and other parts of the world to respect the law of the host country and continue to make impact in contributing to the country’s economy as a way to live in peace and harmony without involving any form of criminality that will dent the image of the country.”

    The Sports Minister also commended the patriotism of Nigerian-owned Cameroon based Naija Diaspora publication for promoting the image of Nigerians across the continent.

  • Give Super Eagles top-class coach, Enoh charges NFF

    Give Super Eagles top-class coach, Enoh charges NFF

    The Minister for Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh, has issued a call for the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) to employ a coach who has pedigree and a track record of success to lead the Super Eagles.

    Emphasizing the importance of having a coach with a reputable history in African football, Senator Enoh highlighted the need for a coach who understands the unique dynamics of the continent’s football landscape.

    Enoh said “The Super Eagles need a coach with pedigree and a track record of achievements. We need someone who can propel us towards winning the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and ensure our qualification for the 2026 World Cup.”

    Read Also: Super Eagles: Gusau seeks spiritual help for World Cup ticket

    The minister further hinted that N17 billion has been released to the NFF to clear Super Eagles bonuses, and allowances. 

    In an interview on Eagle7 FM, the Sports Minister said the Federal Government has paid the NFF an intervention fund, which rose from 12 Billion Naira to 17 Billion Naira due to foreign exchange variation, to clear the monies owed the Super Eagles as well as other national teams.

    “President Bola Tinubu graciously approved this money,” the minister disclosed.