Abuja – In a bid to advance the state of Nigerian football and chart a common vision for its development, Senator John Owan Enoh, the Honorable Minister of Sports Development, engaged in a pivotal meeting with the leadership of the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) on Wednesday at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja NEGROIDHAVEN can report.
This strategic meeting is part of the Minister’s broader efforts to evaluate the state of sports in the country. It underscores the importance of rejuvenating areas within the sports sector that may not be in line with its mission.
While addressing the meeting, Senator Enoh emphasized that the Ministry’s role is to provide oversight functions and ensure the nation’s best interests are upheld in the activities of sports federations, including football, rather than managing the federations directly.
The Minister recognized the immense following, interest, and excitement generated by football in Nigeria and stressed the importance of taking careful and deliberate actions to promote the sport’s growth.
“At this meeting, we must address key issues in our football. Where do we stand as a footballing nation? What are our prospects? What are our plans? This sector draws intense public interest and scrutiny, and we should discuss pressing topics, such as the 10-year football master plan, the NFF executive board, the image of our league, and other issues. We should explore best practices observed in successful footballing nations,” said Senator Enoh.
He also underscored the need for a comprehensive development plan that covers various facets of NFF’s operations, including coach and player education, referee development, league management, national team performance, and governance statutes.
President of the NFF, Alh. Ibrahim Gusau, expressed gratitude to the Minister for his dedication to developing sports in Nigeria. He mentioned that the NFF is currently reviewing its legal statutes and plans to enhance the development of players in the Nigerian League, with Coach Jose Peseiro set to lead the CHAN Eagles.
General Secretary of the NFF, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, emphasized the federation’s commitment to transparency and financial accountability.
Alhaji Abubakar, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, emphasized the necessity of resolving conflicts to facilitate development. He noted that progress can only be achieved when all parties work in harmony.
As the meeting concluded, the hope is that these discussions will result in concrete action points contributing to the growth and development of Nigerian football.
The NFF delegation included key figures such as Felix Anyansi-Agwu, Sharif Rabiu Inuwa, Ahmed Yusuf Fresh, Babagana Kali, Aisha Falode, Hon. Silas Agara, Timothy Henwan, and George Aluo.
EDITORIAL
In this report, we focus on the Sports Minister’s commitment to improving Nigerian football by addressing key issues during a strategic meeting with the NFF executive board. The Minister’s emphasis on development and the NFF’s response, particularly regarding the legal statutes and player development, are highlighted.
