Sports

Dr Are Comments Minister of Sports Development for Visionary Initiatives for Nigerian sports

Published

3 years ago

November 2, 2023

Joel Ajayi

The president of the Nigerian Rugby Football Federation, Dr. Demola Are has extended commendations to the Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh, for his strategic vision and pivotal contributions to the country’s sports development.

He stated that Nigeria’s sports landscape is on the brink of a transformative period, under the leadership of Senator John Owan Enoh. With the Minister dusting up the 10-year football masterplan, his administration is set to implement comprehensive strategies aimed at revolutionizing sports. This blueprint promises to elevate the standard of the sport across all levels, from grassroots programs to elite competitions.

Dr. Demola Are expressed profound appreciation for the Minister’s far-sighted approach, stating, “Senator John Owan Enoh’s commitment to the advancement of sports in Nigeria is commendable. The 10-year master plan reflects a comprehensive strategy that addresses various facets of the sport. It’s a monumental step towards nurturing talent and enhancing the country’s profile.”

One of the key highlights of Senator Enoh’s initiatives is the expansion of the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) Congress. The broader representation and inclusivity within the NFF are expected to bring diverse perspectives to the decision-making process, fostering a more inclusive and representative governing body for Nigerian football.

Furthermore, the Minister’s focus on grassroots sports development has garnered significant acclaim. By investing in the foundational levels of the sport, Nigeria aims to identify, nurture, and support young talent across the nation, ensuring a robust pipeline of skilled athletes for the future.

Dr. Demola Are, a former Director of Grassroots Sports at the Ministry emphasized the crucial role of grassroots development, stating, “The commitment to nurturing talent at the grassroots level is a pivotal component of sustainable success in sports. Senator John Owan Enoh’s emphasis on this aspect is a testament to his understanding of the long-term growth of Nigerian sports.”

The Nigerian Rugby Federation President acknowledged the significance of collaborative efforts between various sports federations and the government, highlighting that such initiatives create a holistic approach to the country’s overall sports development.

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Sports

29 Days To AACT 2026: IBB Club Renewal Heralds Nigeria’s African Golf Showcase

Published

7 hours ago

October 4, 2026

The Gleamer

Joel Ajayi

With 29 days to the 2026 All Africa Challenge Trophy (AACT), Nigeria is stepping up preparations to host the continental women’s team golf championship, with the extensive rehabilitation of the IBB International Golf and Country Club in Abuja providing a major boost to the country’s readiness.

In a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja Director of Communication AACT 2026, Kayode Adeniyi said the Club’s Board of Trustees has assured that the facility will be fully prepared to welcome golfers, officials and delegates from across Africa when the championship tees off on November 2.

Chairperson of the Board of Trustees, Hon. Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, CFR, gave the assurance after inspecting ongoing rehabilitation works at the Club, expressing satisfaction with the progress recorded so far.

The IBB International Golf and Country Club has undergone extensive rehabilitation following its closure to regular golfing activities for more than a year. The intervention has focused on the golf course, selected holes, the clubhouse and other key facilities required to provide a befitting venue for the continental championship.

Justice Dongban-Mensem expressed confidence that the rehabilitation programme would be completed in time for the AACT, further reassuring stakeholders that the Club would be ready to host Africa’s leading female golfers.

Chairman of the Club’s Interim Management Committee, Peter Deshi, also expressed optimism over the progress of work, with regular golfing activities expected to resume ahead of the championship.

For the Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria (LGAN), the readiness of the host venue remains a critical component of the country’s preparations.

President of the Association, Dr. Lami Ahmed, has similarly expressed confidence in Nigeria’s preparations to stage a successful championship.

The 2026 AACT is scheduled to take place from November 2 to 7 at the IBB International Golf and Country Club, Abuja.

With the countdown now entering its final month, the rehabilitation of the Club is sending a strong message about Nigeria’s determination to deliver a successful championship and provide a worthy stage for Africa’s finest female golfers.

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