World News Update

After a distinguished career marked by excellence, astuteness, and dedication, Olufehinti Olusegun Joshua, the Director of Finance and Accounts at the Federal Ministry of Sports Development, bids farewell to the Federal Civil Service as he gracefully retires. Joshua's remarkable contributions and sterling leadership have left an indelible mark on the sports ministry, earning him widespread admiration and respect. The "Mitochondria of the Sports Ministry," Joshua is hailed for his exceptional acumen and brilliant mind, which have been instrumental in driving financial management and accountability within the ministry. His illustrious career trajectory is a testament to his professionalism and resourcefulness, spanning decades of service in various capacities. Beginning his journey in the Federal Civil Service as a Chief Accountant in the Office of the Accountant General in 2000, Joshua quickly rose through the ranks, demonstrating his aptitude for financial management and ...

Thank you, gentlemen of the press, for responding to this invitation at such short notice. I am constrained to address you today to speak to the trending video and open petition to the President wherein Bash Alli, a former World Boxing Champion threw caution and decency to the wind to allege that I demanded the sum of 'another '1 USD( One million dollars) from him inorder to endorse his plan to stage what he calls the oldest boxers fight in Nigeria. When Bash Alli released his video and open letter to the President,with the sole aim to defame and destroy my reputation and integrity, some friends and associates advised that I totally ignore him and his blackmail gambit. They believe that by responding to Bash Alli and his vile campaign of calumy, I will validate and bring him to the limelight.  After a deep reflection, I have come to the inevitable conclusion that to ignore him will be a profound mistake. My reason for this is twofold. First, the perception in the public domai...

Dynamic Nigeria U23 striker,  Promise David has continued to make headlines in the Estonian topflight as he notched his sixth goal of the season, propelling Kalju FC to a thrilling 2-1 victory over Kalev FC.  In his allround captivating display, David played a pivotal role in securing the crucial win for Kalju FC, demonstrating his extraordinary goal-scoring prowess and ability to deliver when it matters most, as he opened the scoring in the 26th minute. With each goal he scores, David reaffirms his promise and leaves a lasting impression on fans and pundits alike. Currently second on the league table with 17 points, Kalju FC's impressive form owes much to David's exceptional contributions on the pitch. Since joining Nõmme Kalju FC from Siren FC of Malta on a three-year deal, David has taken the Estonian league by storm, seamlessly transitioning into the club and showcasing his remarkable talent and skill. David's outstanding performances have not gone unnoticed, as clubs f...

Promise David, the talented Nigeria U23 striker, continues to make waves in the Estonian football scene, solidifying his reputation as one of the most promising young talents in African football. David's exceptional performances for Nõmme Kalju FC in the Estonian league have garnered widespread attention, with European clubs queuing up to secure his services. Since joining Nõmme Kalju FC from Siren FC of Malta on a three-year deal, David has taken the Estonian league by storm, showcasing his extraordinary skill and goal-scoring prowess on the pitch. His seamless transition to the club has been marked by a series of standout performances, further cementing his status as a rising star in the footballing world. David's remarkable contributions to Nõmme Kalju FC have not gone unnoticed, as European clubs have expressed keen interest in acquiring the services of the talented striker. With his impressive goal-scoring record and electrifying performances, David has become a sought-aft...

... _Inducts him as a member of the Nigeria Olympian Association_  On Wednesday, April 24th, 2024, the Executive Board of the Nigerian Olympians Association visited the Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh, to commend his vision and achievements in the field of sports development since he assumed office. During the visit, Olumide Ayodeji OLY, the President of the Association, expressed their desire to not only support the Minister's vision but also contribute to the growth of sports in Nigeria through mentoring of athletes. He highlighted the Olympians' contributions to the country and urged the Minister to look into their welfare in line with his vision for sports development. Emmanuel Babayaro, a legendary member of the Nigerian football team that won a gold medal during the 1996 Atlanta Olympic games, described the Minister as a leader with a human face and assured him of the Nigerian Olympians Association's support in consolidating his achievements so...

_Reaffirms Government's commitment to revitalizing local league under Renewed Hope Mandate_ The conversation to bolster football in Nigeria has gained significant momentum, with the Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh spearheading efforts to revolutionize the country's football landscape. Senator Enoh met with prominent business leader and Chairman of Heirs Holdings, Tony Elumelu, with founder and chairman of BUA Group, Abdul Samad Rabiu also joining virtually.  Senator Enoh reiterated the importance of instilling confidence in Nigeria's prime sport, football, through strategic investments in the local league. "We must put a home-based structure in place that reflects the charismatic, energetic, and die-hard Nigerian spirit," he emphasized. He called upon the private sector to seize the vast opportunities in sports development, emphasizing its potential to drive economic growth, revenue generation, job creation, and national unity. Reflecting on...

Talented Nigeria U-23 striker, and Kalju FC of Estonia attack arrowhead Promise David has emerged as a sought-after prospect for clubs in Denmark, Israel, and other parts of Europe, after his stellar performances on the pitch have garnered attention from various clubs. Thanks to his remarkable goal-scoring prowess and standout contributions to his team's success, the 22-year-old forward made headlines by clinching the prestigious goal of the season award in Estonia, a testament to his exceptional talent and skill on the field. Throughout the season, David has consistently dazzled spectators and pundits alike with his clinical finishing and remarkable ability to dismantle opposing defenses. In his most recent display, David played a pivotal role in securing a semifinal berth for Kalju FC in the Tipner Cup, netting two crucial goals to lead his side to a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Talinn Kalev in the quarterfinals. The opposing team's coach Daniel Meijel acknowledged David'...

Sequel to the rumors making the rounds, it is pertinent to bring updates from the AFN regarding preparations for the Paris 2024 Olympics. Home based athletes are currently camped and preparing for the World Relays in the Bahamas which is scheduled for the 4th -5th of May . The American embassy in Abuja has scheduled a date to interview the athletes and officials.  The sports ministry understands the importance of attending the world relays, going by the position occupied by Nigeria amongst the 32 Nations that have qualified for the relays in the Bahamas hence the funding by the ministry. Furthermore,regarding the debt owed by the previous administration, The Honorable Minister of Sports Development in his proactive and intentional leadership style has directed that all outstanding debts be submitted to his office for attention. A prime focus of the federation is getting the athletes tested for the first compulsory three out of competition tests, which must be conducted before the 3...

_Says the Renewed Hope Agenda offers best opportunity for sports development_ Driven by his undiluted resolve to boost sports development in line with the Renewed Hope mandate of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh signed three Memoranda of Understanding, on Friday in Lagos. Senator Enoh announced that a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed with GTI Asset Management and Trust Limited to relaunch the Challenge Cup as the President Federation Cup in collaboration with the NFF to reignite interest amongst fans and elevate it to global standards. The renamed competition will involve grassroots teams, create employment for approximately 500,000 Nigerians, engage over 100,000,000 football enthusiasts, and showcase our country's greatness globally. The President Federation Cup will become President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's legacy championing Nigerian football. The Minister stated thus "our groundbreaking agreements...

The sports sector is currently experiencing a surge in efforts to improve its performance. We are fully prepared to establish partnerships that will facilitate this much-needed transformation. The Federal Ministry of Sports Development has joined forces with EFFA Management for specific reasons that will enhance various aspects of the sports ministry's strategic six-point policy framework. These include developing and nurturing diverse Nigerian youth talents, celebrating accomplished Nigerian international athletes as they inspire the younger generation, providing support and welfare for developing talents, standardizing local talents and generating value and revenue through sports. Friday, 19th of March marked a significant day for sports partnerships in Nigeria.

_says nation is due for gold medals after Atlanta 1996 heroics_  The Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh has stated the Ministry is committed to seeing Team Nigeria achieve remarkable success at the upcoming 2024 Olympics in Paris. Drawing inspiration from past achievements and a vision for the future, the Minister emphasized Nigeria will be aiming for gold in Paris, in like fashion as the nation's heroics at the 1996 Olympic Games. "Like every area of human endeavor, we expect to build upon what we did at the last Olympics. After Atlanta 1996, the time has come for Nigeria to win at the very least, a gold medal at the Olympics," remarked the Minister. To fulfill this ambition, the Ministry has established a ministerial podium performance committee dedicated to strategic planning and execution. This committee is diligently assessing various sports where Nigeria holds a competitive advantage. Collaborating closely with the Nigerian Olympic Com...

The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Economy Mr. Wale Edun believes President Tinubu has got a handle on things and great improvements are in the horizon. Mr. Wale Edun while speaking at the Funeral Church Service of the late Mother of the Immediate Past Minister of Youth and Sports Chief Sunday Dare assured that prices of Essentials will start to drop. He reassured that President Tinubu and his economic team are working overtime to turn things around for the betterment of Nigeria. Mr. Edun  who said he never met Chief Dare's mother but he can say he met her through his knowledge of  Sunday Dare. " Mr. Dare here, a former Minister colleague is a respectable person, reliable, loyal and hardworking. These are virtues I know he got from Mama. I pray Mama's soul to rest in peace".

The thanksgiving service to celebrate the life of Mama Ruth Adenihun Dare, the mother of ex Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Sunday Dare witnessed a congregation of distinguished dignitaries from across Nigeria and beyond who gathered at the Sabo Baptist Church in Ogbomoso to pay their respects and honour the life and legacy of Mama Ruth Adenihun Dare. President Bola Tinubu was represented by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, as Governor Seyi Makinde led a plethora of notable personalities from Oyo State. Representatives from various spheres of governance and captains of industry joined in expressing their condolences and celebrating the life of the late matriarch, including His Royal Majesty, the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, Orumogege III. In a heartfelt eulogy, Sunday Dare shared poignant memories and reflected on the profound impact Mama Ruth Adeihun Dare had on his life and the lives of those around her. Dare empha...

_Says private individuals and corporate sector not exempted_  The Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh has announced plans to ensure the early release of funds in preparation for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, underscoring the ministry's commitment to supporting Nigerian athletes on the world stage.  Senator Enoh emphasized the importance of securing funding in a timely manner to facilitate comprehensive preparations for the Olympic Games. He added that the ministry will actively pursue partnerships with private individuals and the corporate sector to bolster financial support and ensure that athletes are set up for success. Drawing from the successful model implemented during the African Games, where all athletes were insured, Senator Enoh affirmed the ministry's commitment to safeguarding the well-being of Olympians. Plans are underway to provide insurance coverage for Team Nigeria athletes to mitigate risks associated with injuries and unforeseen...

The ancient city of Ogbomoso is standing still as the immediate past Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Sunday Dare bids farewell to his beloved mother this weekend. The late matron, whose departure has left a profound void in the hearts of many, will be honoured by her family, as well as notable personalities including past and present Ministers, Governors, and esteemed individuals from various sectors. Among those paying their respects were the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye Orumogege III, Ghana's Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Mustapha Ussif, the immediate past Minister of Budget and National Planning, amongst others. The funeral proceedings will commence with a wake ceremony on Friday, followed by the final rites to lay her to rest on saturday. In addition, a special thanksgiving service dedicated to celebrating the life of the late matron will be held on Sunday.  Dare, known for his commitment to national development and youth empowerment, expres...

_Says team’s bold performance deserved Paris ticket_ Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh has saluted the Super Falcons of Nigeria for qualifying for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris after edging South Africa over two legs.  The Minister commended the team for their bold, energetic, and tireless performance that earned them a goalless draw in Pretoria and a 1-0 win over two legs following the win in Abuja last week. With this result, Nigeria broke the 16-year jinx of absence from the Olympics since 2008, securing qualification against their rivals.  Enoh expressed immense pride in the Super Falcons' achievement, highlighting their performance deserved nothing short of the ticket to Paris. "Today, we salute the Super Falcons for their extraordinary display of tenacity and doggedness, breaking barriers and reclaiming Nigeria's spot on the Olympic stage. Their victory is not just a triumph for Nigerian football, but a testament to the power of dedi...

_Tasks Team to Break 16-Year Olympic Jinx_ As the Super Falcons gear up for the crucial second leg of their Olympic qualifying match against South Africa's Bayana Bayana, the Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh has rallied behind the team, urging them to break the 16-year jinx that has kept Nigeria out of the Olympic Games Female Football event. Having missed out on the 2012, 2016, and 2020 Olympic Games, Senator Enoh urged Super Falcons to be determined to reclaim its spot on the international stage. With a 1-0 lead from the first leg held in Abuja, the Super Falcons carry the hopes and dreams of a nation as they head into the decisive match in South Africa. Senator John Owan Enoh, speaking ahead of the match, emphasized the importance of self-belief and resilience in achieving victory. He stated, "The Super Falcons have shown remarkable strength and prowess throughout their journey, and now is the time for them to rise and conquer. We believe in...

Former Super Eagles captain, Mutiu Adepoju has commended Chief Sunday Dare's passion for sports development in Nigeria, as he applauded the establishment of Black Scorpion FC, a brain child of Dare. Adepoju, a former national team captain, lauded Dare's commitment to sports, stating, "Dare has shown tremendous passion for sports in Nigeria. It is understood that he did a lot when he was the Minister of Youth and Sports Development, but his continuous passion for sports development till date means he has an undying love for sports. Owning a football club is a capital-intensive venture, and he is doing it." Black Scorpion FC already boasts a strong foundation in terms of structure and organization. With a dedicated camp, a coaster bus, and well-produced sets of jerseys and training kits, the club demonstrates professionalism, a quality emblematic of Dare's leadership ethos, according to Adepoju. Dare's investments in sports infrastructure have earned him widespr...

Sunday Dare has recounted how his boyhood dream led to establishment of Black Scorpions FC. Dare on Tuesday stated that he has fulfilled that lifelong dream with the unveiling of Black Scorpions FC of Ogbomoso.  The event, which brought together esteemed guests from far and wide, marked a significant milestone in Dare's journey as a sports enthusiast and visionary leader. Reflecting on his childhood passion for sports, he expressed profound gratitude for the opportunity to establish a football club that not only nurtures young talent but also serves as a unifying force within communities. His inspiration stemmed from fond memories of attending matches with his elder brother, where he witnessed firsthand the captivating power of sports to transcend barriers and unite people. "As a young boy, I was captivated by the electrifying atmosphere of football matches," Dare reminisced. "The unity and camaraderie it fostered among people left an indelible mark on me, igniting a...

The Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh has emphasized that increased involvement in sports has become expedient, as it will not only enhance individual health and fitness but also contribute to reduced national expenditure on healthcare. The Minister made the remarks as he pledged his support for the upcoming 19th edition of the Nigerian Oil And Gas Industry Games, scheduled to take place from April 21 to 27, 2024, in Abuja. He reiterated the broader societal benefits of promoting sports participation, and thanked the oil and gas industry for contributing to health and wellness through sports. Senator Enoh commended the consistency demonstrated by the organizers in hosting the 19th edition of the Games. This remarkable milestone underscores the enduring legacy of the event and its significance within the Nigerian sports landscape. He also emphasized that by encouraging more people to embrace an active lifestyle, the nation can collectively work towards bu...