Sports
AFCON Has Re-awakened Spirit of Nationalism, Unity Amongst Nigerians, Testament to the Power of Sports” – Minister Says
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.
Sports
Lagos State Sports Commission, Abbey Rangers FC Seal Groundbreaking Partnership for Grassroots Football Development
The Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC) has unveiled a groundbreaking partnership with Abbey Rangers Football Club, a renowned community football institution in the United Kingdom, marking a new era in grassroots football development in Nigeria.
Under this strategic alliance, Abbey Rangers FC will collaborate with the Lagos State Sports Commission to implement a robust seven-pillar framework focused on:
talent development, coaching enhancement, sports science, community engagement, policy support, resource mobilization, and infrastructure growth.
The partnership is a first of its kind between Nigeria and a UK-based community football club and aims to create a sustainable, inclusive, and globally competitive football ecosystem in Lagos State. It promises to unlock new international opportunities for young athletes and coaches, offering pathways for advanced training, mentorship, and global exposure.
Speaking at the official unveiling, Director General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, Mr. Lekan Fatodu, described the partnership as “a landmark step in Lagos’ mission to build a sustainable and inclusive sports ecosystem.”
“This collaboration represents a deliberate effort to connect Lagos with global best practices in grassroots football development,” Fatodu stated.
“Abbey Rangers brings proven expertise and community-driven values that align with our vision to nurture world-class talent and position Lagos as a continental hub for youth sports excellence.”
In his remarks, Abbey Rangers Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Nick Riley, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, noting that it reflects the club’s long-standing commitment to community-driven sports development.
“We are proud to partner with Lagos State on this visionary initiative,” Riley said.
“Abbey Rangers has always believed that community football is a powerful tool for development, inclusion, and opportunity. This collaboration allows us to share our grassroots model and experience with one of Africa’s most dynamic cities.”
The LSSC–Abbey Rangers partnership is a reflection of Lagos State’s strategic commitment to developing the next generation of football talent through international collaboration, innovation, and community-based sports programs. It also reaffirms the Commission’s leadership in driving sports diplomacy and youth empowerment across Africa.
-
Featured6 years agoLampard Names New Chelsea Manager
-
Featured6 years agoFG To Extends Lockdown In FCT, Lagos Ogun states For 7days
-
Featured6 years agoChildren Custody: Court Adjourns Mike Ezuruonye, Wife’s Case To April 7
-
Featured6 years agoNYSC Dismisses Report Of DG’s Plan To Islamize Benue Orientation Camp
-
Featured4 years agoTransfer Saga: How Mikel Obi Refused to compensate me After I Linked Him Worth $4m Deal In Kuwait SC – Okafor
-
Sports3 years ago
TINUBU LAMBAST DELE MOMODU
-
News10 months agoZulu to Super Eagles B team, President Tinubu is happy with you
-
Featured6 years ago
Board urges FG to establish one-stop rehabilitation centres in 6 geopolitical zones
