Sports

AFCON Has Re-awakened Spirit of Nationalism, Unity Amongst Nigerians, Testament to the Power of Sports” – Minister Says

Published

1 year ago

February 9, 2024

Says this is the best time for corporate organizations to invest in sports

The Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh has stated that the ongoing African Cup of Nations (AFCON) is a further testament of the power of sports to unite the country and promote harmony amongst Nigerians. Thus, he has called on individuals, corporate organizations, and the private sector to invest more in sports.

The Minister made the statement while addressing journalists on Thursday, in the aftermath of Nigeria’s win over South Africa to secure progression into the final of the AFCON. Enoh said that the success of the Super Eagles has eliminated the appearances of division, as Nigerians at home and abroad have embraced each other as a united force to support the country and celebrate their victories.

“I believe that the togetherness and unity that is greeting the success of the Nigerian team at the AFCON is a clarion call to all Nigerians, corporate organizations and the private sector to again see that sports is one activity that brings happiness and joy to all Nigerians, and therefore it makes a very good case for continuous investment in it,” The Minister said. “The AFCON is reawakening a renewed sense of identity and pride for our nation.”

He reiterated that sponsorship and investment in sports is not to be left to the Government alone, as all Nigerians have a stake in it, and it provides a fertile platform to reach out to the generality of Nigerians.

“We are not even done yet with the AFCON. A few days ago, we got the Progressive Governors’ Forum to give huge support to the team, and from now until the next few days, we will be reaching out to Nigerians to motivate these players. Letters, personal calls and appeals will be sent out. I am calling on everyone to be a part of what the Ministry is doing.”

The Minister also stated that His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been incredibly tremendous in his support for sports.
“Mr President is everything our sports needs, and what our country needs. From the approval of funds, clearing of previously-owed salaries and bonuses, and other policy support, Mr. President has given incredible support to sports. To crown it up, he has stated that he will be in Abidjan for the final. The Senate President was in the quarterfinal match, and the vice president attended the semifinal. This Government has shown support and commitment to what is bringing happiness to Nigerians in this difficult period.”

Nigeria will take on host, Cote d’Ivoire in the final of the AFCON, on Sunday night, as the Super Eagles hunt for their fourth AFCON trophy. Nigeria won the tournament in 1980, 1994, and 2013. Ten years after its last win, the nation is on the verge of doing it again.

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Sports

No crisis in NAWIS ahead of AFN elections on Monday

Published

14 hours ago

June 8, 2025

The Gleamer

Joel Ajayi

The Association of Nigerian Women in Sports (NAWIS), known for its orderliness since its establishment in 1990, continues to uphold its standards ahead of the upcoming Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) elections.

With members across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, NAWIS has consistently operated without external interference.

Over the years, its members have been nominated to various boards of national sports federations after meeting established criteria, including the payment of annual dues.

The association has attracted a strong base of respected sportswomen who have served the country with distinction, both during and after their active careers.

In preparation for the AFN elections, zonal elections were conducted on June 2 and 3, producing representatives for the national exercise.

While NAWIS initially planned to hold its election in Zaria, Kaduna State, the association’s headquarters, it was later rescheduled for Abuja on Monday, June 9, following directives from higher authorities.

Importantly, NAWIS has a set of strict guidelines that govern its electoral process, particularly the requirement for timely payment of annual dues. Failure to meet this condition results in automatic disqualification.

This guideline was the basis for the disqualification of Maria Wophil, who has reportedly not paid her annual dues since 2017. Her attempt to hurriedly settle outstanding debts just before the election was deemed non-compliant with NAWIS regulations.

Who is Fatima Yusuf-Olukoju?

Commonwealth gold medallist Fatima Yusuf-Olukoju is one of the leading contenders for the NAWIS representative position in the AFN.

She made history as the first African woman to run the 400m in under 50 seconds and brought glory to Nigeria by winning a silver medal in the 4x400m relay at the Atlanta 1996 Olympics.

Yusuf-Olukoju also claimed gold in the 400m at the 1991 All-Africa Games and silver in the 200m.

Based on nominations and her track record, Yusuf-Olukoju is considered the most qualified candidate. However, three other contenders have also shown interest, and the final decision will be made in the election slated for Monday, June 9, in Abuja.

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