World News Update

_Domestic camping resume this week, foreign training tours scheduled_ The Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh, has strongly emphasized the need for Team Nigeria to surpass its best Olympic record, achieved at the Atlanta 1996 Games.  He made this call during the Ministerial Strategic Technical Meeting aimed at preparing Team Nigeria for the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, held on Thursday at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja. The meeting brought together Olympics-bound sports federations to map out a comprehensive roadmap and technical training programs. These plans will be meticulously analyzed by the Federation and Elite Athletes Department (FEAD) and the Ministerial Podium Performance Committee to ensure that Team Nigeria is on the right path to winning medals. “Surpassing our best Olympic performance is a goal that we should target to meet. We must build on our past successes and strive for excellence in Paris 2024,” Senator Enoh ...

Former Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Honourable Sunday Dare has extolled Nigeria’s journey of unbroken democracy, emphasizing that the nation is on a path of greatness and greater development. As Nigeria celebrates 25 years of democratic governance, Dare highlighted the significance of this milestone and the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. “Our unbroken journey of democracy signifies that we are on the path of greatness and greater development. We must continue on this trajectory, and we will have cause to celebrate,” said Dare. He acknowledged President Tinubu's deep understanding of Nigeria's issues and his pivotal role in the nation’s fight for democracy. “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a man who has built strong alliances across the length and breadth of the country and beyond. He is a man for the moment, ranking top among those visionaries who stood up when the rights of the Nigerian people were trampled,” Dare added. Honourable Dare praised Presiden...

_Says Ministry executing its strategies towards ensuring success in Paris_ The Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh will meet with presidents, secretaries, and technical directors of Olympic-bound sports federations as the Ministry fine-tunes preparations towards Paris 2024 Olympic Games. The programme collaboratively involves notable bodies such as the Nigerian Olympic Committee (NOC), Paralympic Federation of Nigeria, and the Ministerial Podium Performance Committee, in order to foster synergy towards achieving Nigeria’s objectives at this year’s summer Olympics. Senator Enoh stated that the training programme is one amongst the various strategies of the Ministry to ensure Team Nigeria achieves success at the forthcoming Games in Paris, France. The programme is exclusively focused on working with federations that have qualified to participate at the Olympic Games, as deliberations will be laser-focused on how to achieve the Nigeria’s objectives set forth ...

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's qualitative leadership was demonstrated in the demerger of sports from other sectors. For the first time in the nation, a Federal Ministry of Sports Development was established to explore the potential in the sports sector, potentials which will impact significantly on the nation's growth.Along the lines of creating employment opportunities, curbing insecurity , contributing to the Nations GDP etc Senator John Owan Enoh the Honourable Minister of Sports Development is known for his hands-on approach and commitment to succeed in any given assignment, proven time and again as a lawmaker. To gain a firm grasp of the sports sector, the minister performed a critical analysis, identified problems and opportunities, engaged stakeholders extensively, and began implementing policies to bring about enduring systemic change. These policies, some of which are revolutionary, have led to accelerated development of sports in the country. They include, but are not...

_Felicitates with Boniface, Tella on stellar season_ The Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh, has showered encomiums on Super Eagles winger Ademola Lookman for his extraordinary performance in the Europa League final. Lookman scored a historic hat-trick, leading Atalanta to their first European title on Thursday night in Dublin, Ireland. Lookman’s three goals secured a 3-0 victory for Atalanta against Bayer Leverkusen, ending their opponents' 51-game undefeated streak and marking the first-ever hat-trick in a Europa League final. This victory also signifies Atalanta's second major trophy, their first since winning the Coppa Italia 61 years ago. In his congratulatory message, Senator Enoh praised Lookman’s exceptional talent and dedication, which have brought immense pride to Nigeria. "Ademola Lookman has demonstrated remarkable skill and resilience, leading Atalanta to a historic victory. His performance in the Europa League final was nothing ...

HARPS ON KEY PRIORITIES FOR COUNCIL DELIBERATION Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh on Wednesday listed the gale of reforms he has initiated and some of the challenges impeding the development and growth of sports in the country.  Delivering a keynote address at the 1st National Council on Sports meeting in Enugu, the minister stated that in spite of the myriad of problems he met on ground following his appointment as minister, he has initiated a raft of reforms and policies in his concerted effort and commitment to launch sports on the path of development.  According to Senator Owan Enoh, having aggregated the problems and challenges that continue to hinder the development of sports, he launched WAIFAR,a 6-Point Agenda which he envisioned to champion the welfare of athletes, adopt sports as a business, activate Early-age sports and to reposition the Sports Federations for impact. He said: " Over the past months, I have traversed the length and breadth of N...

The vision of Senator John Owan Enoh,the Minister of Sports Development to revolutionize Nigerian sports development through the introduction and implementation of a raft of policies got underway in Enugu on Monday with the commencement of the 1st National Council on Sports, the first of its kind since the de-merger of Ministry of Youths and Sports. The 3-Day Council Meeting taking place at the behest of the Ministry of Sports Development under the guidance and leadership of Senator John Owan Enoh with the Enugu State Government as the host state is expected to ratify progressive and enduring policies that will revolutionize sports administration and development in Nigeria. In her welcome address, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Sports Development, Mrs. Tinuke Watti noted that the first National Council on Sports, coming after the de-merger of the Ministry of Youths and Sports reflects the importance of Sports in the Renewed Hope Agenda of the present administrati...

Former Minister of Youth and Sports Development,Chief Sunday Dare, has commiserated with the government and people of Oyo state, particularly the immediate family, friends and associates of a former Minister of Labour and Productivity under the Interim National Government, Prince Ajibola Afonja over his sudden demise. Prince Ajibola who served as a minister under the short-lived interim administration of late Chief Ernest Shonekan, died on Sunday night at the University College Hospital (UCH),Ibadan, the Oyo State capital. Prince Ajibola also served as Chairman of First Bank and was at a time the senatorial candidate for Oyo Central Senatorial District under the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP). He was known in his country home(Oyo town)  by his company’s name, Integrated Dimesional System – IDS. Reacting to the unpalatable news, the Agbaakin of ogbomoso land, Chief Sunday Dare expressed sadness over the ex-minister’s passage.Adding that Nigeria had lost one of its most outstanding...

The Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh on Thursday conveyed heartfelt wishes for a speedy recovery to injured Super Eagles winger, Moses Simon, as well as other Nigerian athletes facing injury layoffs. During a visit to Nantes, France, Special Assistant on Grassroots to the Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Chief Anthony Adeboye Adeyinka, conveyed the message on behalf of the Minister to demonstrate solidarity and support to Nigerian athletes currently injured. Chief Adeyinka extended the Minister's regards to Moses Simon, affirming the Government's support and well wishes for his swift recuperation. He assured Simon of the Government's solidarity and emphasized the Minister's directive to convey his best wishes personally. "I am here on behalf of the Honourable Minister, Senator John Owan Enoh, to extend our solidarity and support to you during this challenging time," said Chief Adeyinka. "The Minister instructed m...

The Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh has extended invitations to State Commissioners of Sports, government officials, sports federations, and relevant stakeholders to attend the 1st Federal Ministry of Sports Development (FMSD) National Council on Sports Meeting.  The meeting, themed "Sports for National Unity and Socio-Economic Growth," is scheduled to take place from Monday, May 20, to Wednesday, May 22, 2024. The inaugural council meeting since the ministry became the Federal Ministry of Sports Development will serve as a platform for stakeholders to deliberate on the future of sports in Nigeria and to discuss initiatives aimed at promoting national unity and socio-economic development through sports. The event will provide an opportunity for collaboration and dialogue among key players in the sports sector. "We are pleased to announce the convening of the 1st National Council on Sports Meeting, which will focus on the critical role of...

Super Eagles midfielder Wilfred Ndidi paid a courtesy visit to the office of the Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh, on Wednesday, May 14, 2024. Accompanied by his manager, Yahaya Atom, and Mr. Yemi Idowu, Ndidi engaged in discussions with the Sports Minister on various matters pertaining to Nigerian football.  During the visit, Senator Enoh extended his congratulations to Ndidi on Leicester City's promotion to the English Premier League, acknowledging the midfielder's contributions to the team's success. He also took the opportunity to discuss the upcoming World Cup qualifying matches, scheduled to commence early next month. The minister emphasized the importance of preparation and urged Ndidi to play a pivotal role in the Super Eagles' quest to secure their place in the World Cup. He encouraged Ndidi to continue to exhibit the same level of dedication and skill that has made him a valuable asset to both club and country. Also, Ndidi conv...

The Attom Foundation, a non-profit organization committed to providing eye care to people in need, is set to kick off the inaugural Charity Champions Cup at the MKO Abiola National Stadium in Abuja on June 15, 2024.  The Charity Champions Cup aims to raise funds and awareness to support eye care treatment for at least 10,000 Nigerians, particularly the elderly, affected by vision problems such as refractive errors, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma. The founder of Attom Foundation, Yahaya Attom, expressed his excitement about the upcoming event, which will feature a lineup of football legends and notable Nigerian celebrities. Among the celebrities set to participate in the charity game are Funnybone and Crazeclown, renowned comedians known for their philanthropic efforts. "This is a thrilling project for us," said Yahaya Attom. "We're grateful for the support we've received so far. There's still work to be done, but we're confident we'll a...

Nigerian sprinter Tobi Amusan has cemented her status as the fastest woman in the world this year after an electrifying performance at the Jamaica Athletics Invitational. In a stunning display of speed and agility, Amusan blazed through the women's 100m hurdles, crossing the finish line in an astonishing time of 12.40 seconds (with a wind speed of 0.9 m/s), setting a new World Lead time in the process. Amusan's remarkable victory saw her outpace reigning World Champion Danielle Williams of Jamaica, who finished in second place with a time of 12.46 seconds. American athlete Christina Clemons secured the third spot on the podium, clocking in at 12.54 seconds. With this monumental achievement, Tobi Amusan has etched her name in the annals of athletics history, dethroning the reigning world champion and claiming her title as the fastest woman in the world this year. Her performance at the Jamaican athletics event showcases not only her exceptional talent and athleticism but also th...

Former Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Chief Sunday Dare, has extended his heartfelt condolences to Tijanni Babangida and his family following the tragic accident that claimed the life of his brother, Ibrahim Babangida. Ibrahim, a former member of the Atlanta 1996 Olympic team and the President of the Professional Footballers Association of Nigeria (PFAN), was involved in a fatal accident alongside his family members. It was disclosed that the accident occurred on Thursday while Babangida was traveling with his younger brother, his wife, his son, and their maid. Chief Sunday Dare expressed deep sorrow upon learning of the unfortunate incident, emphasizing the profound impact of Ibrahim Babangida's untimely passing on the Nigerian sports community. He acknowledged Babangida's significant contributions to Nigerian football and his instrumental role in advancing the interests of professional footballers in the country. "The news of Ibrahim Babangida's passing is...

  ...Describes his appointment as Symbolic ,Momentous_ Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh, on Monday, rallied support of critical stakeholders and Nigerians for Finidi George, the newly appointed Coach of the Senior National Team, the Super Eagles.  Speaking at the unveiling of Finidi George as the new Head Coach of the Super Eagles on Monday inside the Media Centre of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, Senator Enoh who observed that the appointment of Finidi George as the National Team Coach was well received by Nigerians expressed his confidence in his ability to take the Super Eagles to a new height.  For this to happen, he stated that the new coach requires the support of all Nigerians for him to succeed.  According to the Minister, with his appointment, Finidi George has the responsibility to bring back the liveliness and excitement of the Nigerian Football.  The Minister stated that the administration of the President Bola Ahme...

Sports Minister Senator John Owan Enoh met with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Aso Rock Villa to provide a comprehensive account of his stewardship within the sports sector.  The meeting highlighted the significant achievements and ongoing initiatives aimed at fostering the growth and development of sports in Nigeria. During the briefing, Minister Enoh outlined the successes achieved across various sporting events, including the African Cup of Nations, the African Games, and the World Relay Championships in the Bahamas. He emphasized the positive strides made by Nigerian athletes on the international stage, showcasing the nation's prowess and determination in the world of sports. He outlined the vision of the Ministry, to increase private investments in the industry as well as advance sports for development and development of sports. President Tinubu commended Minister Enoh for his dedication and proactive initiatives in advancing the sports industry. He acknowledged the pivota...

The Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh extends heartfelt condolences to ex Super Eagles star Tijjani Babangida and his family on the tragic loss of his brother, Ibrahim Babangida, in a fatal car accident. Tijjani Babangida, a gold medallist at the Atlanta 1996 Olympic Games and President of the Professional Footballers Association of Nigeria (PFAN), was involved in a devastating car accident on Thursday along the Kaduna-Zaria Road. The crash claimed the life of his younger brother, Ibrahim Babangida, leaving the football community in mourning. In the wake of this heartbreaking tragedy, Senator John Owan Enoh offers his deepest sympathies and support to Tijanni Babangida and his family during this difficult time. He emphasizes the importance of unity and solidarity within the sports community as they mourn the loss of a beloved family member. As the sports fraternity comes together to support Tijanni Babangida and his family, Senator John Owan Enoh urges e...

The Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh has extended warm congratulations to Nigeria's men's and women's 4x100m relay teams for securing tickets to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games at the 2024 World Relays Championship in the Bahamas. Nigeria's sprinting prowess was on full display as the quartet of Udodi Onwuzuruike, Consider Ekanem, Alaba Akintola, and Karlington Anunagba delivered a stellar performance, finishing second in heat 2 with a remarkable time of 38.57s. This outstanding achievement secured an automatic qualification spot for the Paris Olympics, alongside Ghana. Similarly, Nigeria's women's 4x100m relay team comprising Justina Eyakpobeyan, Favour Ofili, Olayinka Olajide, and Tima Godbless showcased exceptional teamwork and speed, storming to victory in a time of 42.71s. Their impressive performance earned them a well-deserved qualification for the Paris 2024 Olympics. Reflecting on the achievements of Team Nigeria at the Wor...

Talented Nigeria U23 star currently shining for Kalju FC in the Estonian league, Promise David has been honored with the Player of the Month award for his stellar performance in April. The award, sponsored by Gold Time, the company responsible for promoting the Estonia league presented the plaque and gift to David during Saturdays' game in recognition of his outstanding contributions. David's exceptional talent and goal-scoring prowess have earned him widespread acclaim and admiration in the Estonian league. His sensational performances have not only dazzled fans but also attracted attention from clubs across Europe vying for his signature. In April, David's stellar performance reached new heights as he showcased his scoring prowess by netting five goals in four games. To start May, he scored two goals and provided one assist, increasing his tally to eight goals and three assists for the ongoing season. His remarkable achievements on the pitch have cemented his reputation a...

The Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh extends heartfelt congratulations to Team Nigeria athletes for their impressive performances so far at the World Relays Championship in the Bahamas, as they secured qualification for the 4x400 mixed relays and 4x400 men's relay event at the 2024 Olympics Games in Paris. Speaking on the remarkable achievement, Senator John Owan Enoh stated, "I am immensely proud of our Team Nigeria athletes for their exceptional performance at the World Relays Championship, which has secured two qualification tickets for the Olympic Games already. Their dedication, determination, and resilience have brought honor to our nation, and I congratulate them on this milestone." The Nigerian men’s 4x400m quartet of Dubem Nwachukwu, Dubem Amene, Sikiru Adeyemi, and Chidi Okezie showcased their prowess on the track, clocking a remarkable time of 3:01.70 to secure qualification for the Olympic Games. This achievement marks the fast...

Nigeria U23 and Nõmme Kalju FC's dynamic striker, Promise David, showcased his exceptional ability once again, scoring twice and providing an assist as Kalju secured a commanding 4-2 victory against Tammeka in the Estonian top division on Friday evening. David's impactful performance began early in the game when he orchestrated the opening goal, displaying remarkable skill to assist Nikita Komissarov in the 16th minute with a beautifully executed effort. Despite Tammeka's equalizer, David's resilience and determination shone through as he reclaimed the lead for Kalju, setting up another goal for Komissarov, and then extending the lead himself with a superb individual effort just before halftime. In the second half, David continued to dominate the game, sealing the victory for his team with a clinical finish in the 81st minute, bringing the final score to 4-2 and ensuring Kalju's triumph. David's outstanding performance throughout the month of April did not go un...