Sports

Don’t Hide Your Children’s Talent, Sports Minister Urges Parents

Published

4 years ago

March 9, 2022

By Joel Ajayi

Minister of Sports of youth and sports development, Sunday Dare urged the parents in the country not to hide the sports talent of their wards but rather encourage them to develop it.

He gave this advice on Wednesday in Abuja at the third edition of Paris Africana Int’l School’s Sports Fiesta held at Aguiyi Ironsi Cantonment in Abuja the event that witness a whole lot of sporting excellence.

Sports minister who was represented by his Media Aide, Kola Daniel reiterated that the ministry will not stop working round the clock to ensure Nigeria returns to the era it produced international athletes for the country from a robust school sports system.

“Power of sports cannot be undermine, sport is essential to every child that why I am using this occasion to call on parent not to hide the talent of their children but they should rather encourage their children talent for the purpose of growth and development.

“Sports stars like Daniel Amokachi, Emmanuel Babayaro and so on were unearthed through a functional school sports system and my principal, Hon. Sunday Dare is committed to returning our schools to its invaluable place in sports stars development”.

The Annual Inter-house Sports was graced by Ex-Super Eagles President, Nigerian Players’ Union, Tijanni Babangida, 1996 Olympic Gold Medalist, Emmanuel Babayaro, and NFF Technical Officer, Garba Lawal were at the ground to light up the torch and provide mentorship for the young and aspiring sports starlets of the institution.

In his remark, Emmanuel Babayaro said “I was thrilled with the atmosphere as soon as I got in. I love the investment Paris Africana international School has made in sports and this will be the beginning of greatness for the talents in the school. We will always provide mentorship and support to this kids, so they grow to be better than we were”.

In his opening addressed the Director of the School, Engr. Gbenga Nowoola expressed delight and pledged that the school will keep providing a platform for the students to sharpen their skills until they get to professional level.

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Sports

Dr. Andiir Solomon Atoo Honored with SWAN Diamond Jubilee Award for Outstanding Contributions to Sports

Published

2 hours ago

November 1, 2025

The Gleamer

Cyril Ogar

Benue-born sports administrator and philanthropist, Dr. Andiir Solomon Atoo, has expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) for recognizing his contribution to sports development in Benue State and Nigeria at large.

Dr. Atoo, who serves as President of Flight Sports Nigeria Limited and Founder of Flight Football Club, Gboko, received the honour during the association’s Diamond Jubilee Celebration in Abuja.

Speaking after receiving the prestigious award, Dr. Atoo described the recognition as a “special motivation and encouragement” to continue contributing to sports growth across the country.

“I’m very happy and honoured. This award means a lot to me because it serves as motivation and encouragement. It’s something very special and not something I take lightly,” he said.

A respected sports administrator, CEO, and humanitarian, Dr. Atoo has built a sterling reputation for his commitment to nurturing young talents and promoting grassroots sports in Benue State.

Through Flight Sports Nigeria Limited, which oversees a range of sporting disciplines including football, volleyball, basketball, lawn tennis, and para sports, he has created opportunities for young athletes to develop their potential and pursue professional careers.

Under his leadership, Flight Football Club Gboko has become a platform for discovering and grooming promising footballers who have gone on to make their mark both locally and internationally. Beyond football, his investment in volleyball, lawn tennis, para sports, and basketball has revitalized interest and participation in these disciplines within Benue and beyond.

Reflecting on his journey, Dr. Atoo noted that his involvement in sports began purely out of passion but has now grown into a lifelong mission.

“It all started as a passion, but over time, it has become part of me — a culture,” he stated. “This recognition only drives me to do more for the progress of our youth and the development of sports in Benue State and Nigeria.”

He also extended his appreciation to sports journalists in the state and across Nigeria for their continuous support and constructive criticism, noting that their work plays a vital role in shaping sports administration and inspiring excellence.
Looking ahead, Dr. Atoo reaffirmed his dedication to empowering young athletes and improving sports structures in the region.

> “Going forward, we’re going to achieve great things in Benue. My message to sports lovers, administrators, and players is simple — stay dedicated, keep believing, and together we can make sports a major unifying force in our state and beyond,” he concluded.

The recognition by SWAN adds to Dr. Atoo’s growing list of honours as a sports leader, CEO, and philanthropist whose initiatives continue to drive youth empowerment and sports development across multiple disciplines in Benue State and Nigeria.

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