Sports
Sports Minister Extends Gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for National Teams’ Backlog, Boosting AFCON Preparations
…Says move further reiterates the President’s commitment to sports development
Joel Ajayi
The Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh has expressed his appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the recent approval of a substantial N12 billion disbursement to address the longstanding outstanding backlog owed to Nigeria’s National teams, as well as boost the mood of the Super Eagles, ahead of the African Cup of Nations kicking off this weekend.
The payment encompasses the settlement of senior national team coaches salaries spanning 15 months, as well as the disbursement of bonuses owed to both senior and junior national teams (male and female). This significant financial injection is particularly timely as it arrived just when the preparations of the Super Eagles for the AFCON struck top gear.
The Minister thanked Mr. President for approving the funds, noting that it reflects his love for sports. He added that the approval not only serves as a morale booster for the teams involved but also underscores the government’s dedication to fostering excellence in Nigerian sports on the continental stage.
“This is a clear indication of Mr. President’s commitment to sports development. This explains why he made Sports Development a standalone Ministry, so as to pay closer attention to its pertinent issues. On behalf of the Ministry and the NFF, I thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” Senator Enoh said.
He assured the President Tinubu that the team will do everything within its powers to make the nation proud at the continental showpiece. Nigeria takes on Equatorial Guinea on Sunday, in its first game at the AFCOn before tackling Ivory Coast and Guinea Bissau in Abidjan.
Sports
“Aderonke Atoyebi Wins Big in Denmark, Inspires Global Recognition for Nigerian Women in Sports
Joel Ajayi
Nigeria’s own Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi has brought immense pride to the nation after being named the International Sport and Culture Association (ISCA) Role Model of the Year at a ceremony held in Copenhagen, Denmark.
The biennial ISCA Awards honour individuals and organizations that use sports and physical activity as tools for social change, inclusion, and empowerment across the globe. This year’s edition drew nominations from several countries, spotlighting outstanding figures who have transformed their communities through the power of sports.
Atoyebi’s unwavering commitment to gender equality and youth empowerment has made her a prominent voice in the sports-for-development space. Through her advocacy and leadership, she continues to demonstrate how sports can serve as a bridge for education, unity, and hope—especially among young women in Nigeria and beyond.
As part of the recognition, Atoyebi received a €3,000 cash prize along with the global visibility that accompanies the prestigious ISCA honour.
Speaking shortly after receiving the award, she expressed deep gratitude and excitement, dedicating the recognition to her team and everyone who has supported her journey.
> “This award means a lot to me. It’s a testament to the hard work my team and I have put in over the years,” Atoyebi said. “Being recognised on such an international stage proves that no effort toward positive change ever goes unnoticed. It motivates me to keep pushing boundaries and reaching more girls who need hope and opportunity.”
Atoyebi’s global recognition further strengthens Nigeria’s growing influence in the global dialogue around sports, development, and women’s empowerment. Her story continues to inspire a new generation of African women to believe that with passion, dedication, and purpose, they too can create lasting change.
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