Sports

Sports Minister Visits Nigerian Breweries to Spearhead Private Investment Drive

Published

2 years ago

October 21, 2023

…Says Private sector can play a leading role in sports development

Joel Ajayi

In a move aimed at bolstering Nigeria’s sporting industry and ensuring the continued growth of various sports, the Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh, paid a working visit to Nigerian Breweries Plc headquarters in Lagos on Friday, to discuss potential sports investment opportunities. The visit marks a significant step towards fostering collaboration between the government and the private sector to advance the nation’s sports landscape.

The Minister was warmly received by top executives at Nigerian Breweries, including the Managing Director, Mrs. Hans Essaadi.
Senator Enoh stated that the potential of sports in the country is enormous and the country needs to tap into the potential to upscale achievements and find more consistency in these achievements.

“This visit is to restore confidence, and to state that more than before, the Nigerian sports industry needs the private sector to be more involved,” the Minister said. “The new leadership at the Ministry is approaching its responsibilities with the determination to restore confidence and trust. This determination is fueled by passion to drive change in the Nigerian sports ecosystem.”

During the meeting, the Minister highlighted the ministry is open and excited to collaborate with the private sector to drive change. He said the Government plans to relate with the private sector a lot more closely and develop a framework that would help improve facilities, training, and grassroots development across various sports, including football, athletics, basketball, and others.

“There is a lot that Nigerian Breweries and other private investors can do to support and assist the impact that the sports can have on the fabric of our society,” he said. “Every involvement can be measurable. The Ministry is willing to collaborate and establish cordial working relationships with the private sector for the benefit of the nation.”

In his remarks, Mr. Essaadi emphasized the integral role that sports play in promoting a healthy and active nation, and the need for continued support and investment in various sporting disciplines. He stated that it is a powerful tool for national unity, as well as a social inclusion instrument.

Nigerian Breweries Plc has a rich history of supporting sports, most notably through its sponsorship of school sports and grassroots tourneys. The company’s contributions have not only bolstered the sporting sector but also created a platform for young talents to showcase their skills.

The Minister expressed optimism that its partnership with the organization would serve as a significant boost to the sports sector in Nigeria and provide the necessary support for emerging talent.

This visit by the Minister of Sports to Nigerian Breweries is indicative of the growing recognition of the importance of public-private partnerships in driving the growth and development of sports in Nigeria.

He stated that private investments such as Maltina School Sports, Milo Basketball tourney, Shell Cup, Pepsi U-13 championships, etc are known to have led to the discovery of lots of talents, who were placed on the national map.

The collaboration between the government and one of the country’s leading corporations bodes well for the future of sports, and it is expected to open up new opportunities for athletes, fans, and the sports industry as a whole.

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Sports

Fatimah Yusuf Olukoju Emerges NAWIS Representative on AFN Board

Published

4 hours ago

June 9, 2025

The Gleamer

By Joel Ajayi

Renowned former Nigerian sprinter Fatimah Yusuf Olukoju has been elected as the Nigeria Association for Women in Sports (NAWIS) representative on the board of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN).

Her emergence followed a transparent electoral process conducted by NAWIS on Monday at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja. Olukoju secured 30 votes out of 45, defeating her sole opponent, Dr. Nneka Anibeze, who polled 15 votes.

The election aligns with the revised AFN constitution, which reserves a dedicated seat on the board for a women-in-sports representative.

A trailblazer in Nigerian athletics, Fatimah Yusuf Olukoju brings a wealth of experience to her new role. A former Olympian and African champion, she is best remembered for her record-breaking performances in the 400 metres and her pivotal role in Nigeria’s relay teams during the 1990s.

Her appointment is expected to bolster advocacy for gender inclusion, athlete welfare, and grassroots development within the federation.

In her acceptance speech, Olukoju expressed heartfelt gratitude for the trust placed in her by NAWIS members, pledging to work tirelessly to promote the interests of women in sports.

“Once again, I want to thank our founder and the NAWIS EXCO leadership. Leadership isn’t about how far you advance yourself—it’s about how far you can advance others,” she said.“If you’re not passing on what you’ve learned and experienced to those you lead, you’re not setting yourself up for lasting success. Leaders are meant to serve others.”

She also emphasized her readiness to take on the responsibility, regardless of her location.

“Thank God I have good health and stamina. I’m ready to contribute positively to the growth of sports in Nigeria, especially women in sports.

“Let me remind you that I have always answered the call to serve Nigeria, no matter where I lived at the time.

“I am ready to serve again in this new capacity, and distance will never stand in the way. I will always be physically present to carry out this great responsibility whenever necessary.”

With her appointment, Fatimah Yusuf Olukoju is set to be a powerful voice on the AFN board—representing women, championing development, and shaping a stronger future for Nigerian athletics.

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