World News Update

_Backs Nigeria to triumph 10 years after last victory in South Africa_ The Honurable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Enoh has stated the support of the Presidency for the Super Eagles' quest to triumph at the African Cup of Nations (AFCON), kicking off in January 2024, in the West African nation of Cote D'Ivoire.  The Minister made the disclosure to newsmen at the Tunde Idiagbon International Airport in Ilorin, during a visit to Kwara State. Enoh emphasized the significant backing extended by the Presidency, stating, thus "we are hoping that we are going to make the best out of it. We have the full backing of the president." The statement underscores the resolute commitment and belief in the Nigeria's Senior Men's National team's capabilities to excel in the prestigious tournament.  The Minister conveyed the collective ambition of the Super Eagles to secure victory at the Africa Cup of Nations again, a decade after their last triumph in South ...

_Tourney to continually foster discovery of young talents_ The inaugural JOE Tennis Tournament reached a thrilling conclusion with worthy champions emerging in both junior and professional categories at the Calabar Sports Club on Monday evening. Senator John Enoh, the Honourable Minister of Sports Development, expressed his excitement and pride in witnessing the abundance of young talent showcased during the tournament. He emphasized the tournament's role as a nurturing ground for raw potential, affirming its commitment to fostering budding athletes. "The tournament's success in unearthing such incredible young talent is truly inspiring. We want to provide platforms like this to nurture and support these future stars." The grand finale marked the culmination of nine days filled with exhilarating tennis action in the heart of Cross River state's capital. Among the highlights were the victories of remarkable players in various categories: In the U16 category, Damilo...

CONDOLENCE STATEMENT BY CHIEF SUNDAY DARE, NIGERIA FORMER MINISTER OF YOUTHS AND SPORTS DEVELOPMENT: With profound sadness, I extend my deepest condolences to the Government and people of Ondo State, as well as the grieving Akeredolu family, on the untimely passing of Governor Rotimi Akeredolu. A brotherly friend and leader, Aketi's demise leaves a void that resonates deeply within our nation, especially during a time when his dedicated service was needed most. Akeredolu was an intellectual Iroko impossible to be ignore. I join in mourning the loss of a distinguished leader. Governor Akeredolu, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and former president of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), embodied tremendous qualities. His success as a lawyer was matched only by his unwavering commitment to merit over sentiments, a principle that defined his leadership. His legacy as the Chairman of the Southwest FORUM OF State Governors showcased his dedication to justice. Despite grappling with cr...

_tournament represents a foundation for athletic excellence and dedication_ The much-anticipated grand finale of John Owan Enoh (JOE) Tennis Tournament is set to take place on Tuesday, December 26, in what is a culmination of the Cross River State Open, at the prestigious Calabar Sports Club. The JOE Tennis Tournament, a flagship initiative of Senator John Owan Enoh, is providing a platform for nurturing tennis talents, promoting sportsmanship, and fostering a culture of healthy competition. The tourney features an U15 category,doubles, women's and men's singles, and pro exhibition games. Senator John Owan Enoh, chief organizer and Nigeria's Minister of Sports Development, expresses enthusiasm and anticipation for the grand finale, stating that "the tournament represents a foundation for athletic excellence and dedication. It's a testament to our passion to support aspiring athletes and promote sports development within our communities." "Also, this is an...

_Emphasizes importance of new goals and aspirations, in sports and personal endeavors_ As the festive season dawns upon us, the Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh, extends warm greetings and heartfelt wishes to the good people of our nation, celebrating the joyous occasion of Christmas and heralding the promising dawn of the New Year, 2024. In his message, Senator John Owan Enoh expressed his sincere gratitude to the people for their unwavering support and dedication towards the Renewed Hope mandate of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Ministry of Sports Development. He highlighted the unity and resilience showcased by athletes and sports enthusiasts, contributing significantly to the growth and recognition of our nation on the global sports stage. "As we gather with family and friends to celebrate this beautiful Christmas, let us cherish the values of love, compassion, and unity," remarked Senator John Owan Enoh. "May this season bring joy and harm...

_Calls for greater collaboration between Government and Private Sector for enhanced development_  The Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh has expressed his delight with the completion of work and the handing over of the rehabilitated pitch and scoreboards at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, by Dangote Group and Aron Nigeria Ltd on Tuesday.  The Minister commended the companies over the completion of their two years post maintenance rehabilitation and called for increased collaboration between the government and the private sector to further advance sports development in Nigeria. The rehabilitation of the National Stadium facilities by Dangote Group and Aron Nigeria Ltd represents a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to enhance sports infrastructure in the country. Senator Enoh applauded the commitment and resources invested by Dangote Group, describing their involvement as a shining example of the positive outcomes achievable through col...

_Affirms significance of ministry's Zonal Offices in grassroots development_  In his dedication to advancing grassroots development and fostering sports at the community level, the Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Enoh, undertook a detailed inspection tour of the Obafemi Awolowo National Stadium in Ibadan on Monday. The inspection was undertaken during the Minister's visit to the Southwest Zonal Office of the Ministry of Sports Development. He emphasized the crucial role that the Ministry's zonal offices play in his comprehensive agenda for grassroots development.  The Southwest Zonal Office, encompassing Ekiti, Ondo, Ogun, Osun, Oyo, and Lagos states, serves as a strategic hub for implementing policies and initiatives aimed at activating grassroots sports and facilitating holistic development at the regional level. During the inspection tour of the Obafemi Awolowo National Stadium, led by zonal coordinator, Mr. Okere Emmanuel, Senator Enoh emphasized...

_”private investors have a crucial role in the growth and sustainability of sports”_   The Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh, on Saturday, embarked on a significant visit to the headquarters of Remo Stars Football Club In Ikenne, Ogun State. The Minister's visit was marked by a comprehensive tour of the club's state-of-the-art facilities, with President of the club, Hon. Kunle Soname leading the tour. Senator Enoh expressed his admiration for the impressive infrastructure and facilities at Remo Stars, highlighting the club's dedication to providing a world-class environment for its players and staff. He commended Hon. Kunle Soname and the entire management team for their commitment to the development of football in Nigeria. Enoh emphasized the crucial role of private investment in the growth and sustainability of sports in the country. He lauded Remo Stars as a shining example of a privately-owned sports entity that is making significant stri...

_Says the power of sports can propel the prosperity and development of Africa_   The Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh, has been honored with the distinguished Africa Sustainability Man of the Year 2023 Award. The prestigious accolade was conferred upon Senator Enoh at the 17th edition of the Sustainability, Enterprise and Responsibility Awards (SERAS), held on December 15, 2023, in Lagos, Nigeria. Selected from an exceptional lineup of prominent leaders of African origin, Senator Enoh's recognition underscores his remarkable contributions to sustainable leadership and his outstanding achievements in steering the Sports Ministry towards a positive transformation. Under his leadership, the sports ministry is undergoing a turnaround marked by clear policy directions and an extraordinary passion to rejuvenate all facets of Nigeria's sports ecosystem for the greater good of the nation. Senator Enoh's six-point agenda, known as W.A.I.F.A.R (Welfar...

The Executive Governor of Ekiti State, Mr. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO) has appointed Alhaja Fasilat Titilayo Oseni-Adesina, as Senior Special Assistant (SSA) on Grassroot Mobilisation. The appointment of Alhaja Fasilat Titilayo Oseni-Adesina, together with other SSAs and SAs was made public on the website of the State, www.ekitistate.gov.ng, according to a statement signed by the Governor’s Special Adviser on Media Mr. Yinka Oyebode, at the afternoon hours of  Tuesday 12th December, 2023. "While congratulating the new appointees, Governor Oyebanji urged them to see their appointments as opportunity to serve the people of the state and contribute to the administration’s development agenda", the statement reads in part, as the appointment takes effect on the 1st day of January 2024. The newly appointed SSA, as a grassroot politician and mobiliser,  worked with the Support Group Directorate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council (Southwest) during...

In a groundbreaking move that signals a new era for Nigerian football, FIFA has placed 30 match officials from Nigeria on its list for the 2024 football calendar. This announcement not only signifies a major achievement for Nigerian referees, but it also serves as a testament to the country's commitment to excellence in sports officiating. In response to the news, Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh expressed his delight, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and celebrating the achievements of Nigerian sports officials. Senator Enoh is at the forefront of a strong commitment to enhance Nigeria's sports profile. His visionary leadership and passion has been instrumental in building the nation's standing in the world of football. Nigeria, known for its passionate football culture, has long been a breeding ground for talented players, but the recognition of its match officials on the global stage is a significant achievement, especially after recent snu...

 Honourable Aminu Balele Kurfi, esteemed member of the Nigerian House of Representatives, chaired his inaugural meeting as the Chairman of the influential House Committee on Housing and Habitat. The meeting, held at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja, marked the beginning of a dedicated and strategic agenda aimed at addressing crucial housing and habitat-related matters across the nation. According to the jurisdiction in the Standing order (10 edition) of the House of Representatives. Order 18, Rule 53 posits that the Committee will oversee the Federal Ministry of Housing and Development, Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria, and Family Homes Fund Ltd. Hon. Aminu Balele Kurfi, known for his unwavering commitment to national development, opened the session by outlining the Committee's primary objectives and outlining a roadmap that prioritizes the advancement of housing policies and habitat-related initiatives in Nigeria. During the meeting, Hon. Kurfi emphasized the pivotal role th...

_“Games has inspired a new era of inclusivity, empowerment, and recognition”_ The resounding success of the 2nd edition of the National Para Games culminated in an exhilarating and grand closing ceremony at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja. The week-long celebration of talent, resilience, and sportsmanship concluded on December 14th, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of para sports in Nigeria. The Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh, lauded the remarkable display of talent and dexterity exhibited by the para athletes throughout the Games. Expressing his delight, he commended the spirit of competition and the dedication of all participants. "The National Para Games have once again showcased the incredible abilities and unwavering spirit of our para athletes,'' Senator Enoh said. "The level of talent and determination displayed by these athletes is truly inspiring. They embody the essence of sportsmanship and perseverance...

_says sports achievement is a barometer for evaluating effective and meaningful governance_ The Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh is leading a ministerial retreat on athletes performance at the 2024 Olympic and 2024 Africa Games, which focuses on addressing some of the factors responsible for the poor performance of Nigerian athletes at international sports competitions. In his inaugural address on Wednesday, Senator Enoh emphasized the imperative nature of evaluating strategies pertinent to training regimens, athlete and official codes of conduct, anti-doping education, and the pivotal roles of National Sports Federations in ensuring podium success at the 2024 Africa Games in Ghana and the forthcoming Olympic/Paralympic Games in Paris, France. "I would like to commend my resource persons who have been working assiduously  behind the scene towards Nigeria's preparation and participation to podium success," the Minister said. "I have im...

  Former Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Sunday Dare felicitates with Super Eagles striker, Victor Osimhen, for winning the prestigious Men’s Player of the Year at the 2023 CAF Awards, that was held in Marrakech, Morocco. Similarly, Hon. Dare congratulated Super Falcons forward, Asisat Oshoala, who claimed the 2023 CAF Women’s Player of the Year award for an impressive sixth time, along with Chiamaka Nnadozie, honoured as the Women's Goalkeeper of the Year. He also commended the Super Falcons for their outstanding achievement as the Women’s National Team of the Year. "During my time as the Minister of Youth and Sports Development, I witnessed first-hand the dedication and passion of Osimhen, so his meteoric rise has not come as a surprise to me. From winning the U-17 highest goalscorer's prize to winning the same award during the qualifiers with the Super Eagles, his desire has always remained the same. This award is a testament of a boy who had a dream and ...

  _Says this success will open a new vista for Nigeria sports_ The Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh proudly congratulates Victor Osimhen, and Asisat Oshoala  for their remarkable achievements, securing the coveted titles of Men's African Footballer of the Year and Women's African Footballer of the Year, respectively, at the prestigious 2023 CAF Awards ceremony held in Marrakech, Morocco. The Minister said that the Nigerian duo's triumph in clinching the most prestigious individual accolades in African football serves as a testament to their outstanding talent, dedication, and immense contributions to the beautiful game.  He commended their exemplary performances, which have not only made Nigeria proud but have also garnered global recognition for their exceptional skills and commitment. Chiamaka Nnadozie also won the inaugural Women's Goalkeeper of the Year Award, to solidify her position as the best goalkeeper in Africa.  "The vict...

Immediate past Minister of Sports and Youth Development, Chief Sunday Akin Dare (CON FNIS) has urged the global community, to always prioritize  human health, as it affects women and young people; in all policies being enunciated, to tackle the menage of Climate Change. Chief Dare, made the advocacy while delivering a key note address at the United Nations' Climate Change Conference of Parties (COP28), an event that was held at the Nigerian Pavilion (Blue Roof), Expo City Dubai UAE, on Monday, December 4,  2023. Chief Dare also stressed the importance of Human health as it affects  adaptation and resilience strategies; encouraging individual action, as well as sub themes, in relation to climate change and it's awareness. COP28 is the 28th Conference of the Parties to the UNFCCC – the UN’s primary climate change body; and all United Nations member states are Parties to this treaty, as well as the European Union and other non-UN member states.  That makes the COPs a hu...