As the newly appointed Minister of Sports, Senator John Owan Enoh seeks to strengthen his strive for the development of sports in the country, an important interactive session with relevant stakeholders in the sports industry to reposition the sector, in line with global realities Saturday took place.
In a press release signed by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Mohammed Manga, in the meeting held in Lagos, the Minister stated that the interaction was imperative, especially, considering the fact that sports has remained the most unifying factor in Nigeria.
Senator Enoh informed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is passionate about the development of sports in the country, not only as recreation but also to provide opportunities for economic empowerment, job creation, security and poverty alleviation, among others.
The Minister who described the meeting as a family one, called on stakeholders in the industry, sports-loving Nigerians and the media in particular, to partner with the present Administration to develop the sector. This, he said, can be achieved through objective, balanced and positive reportage by the media.
He added that the present administration recognizes the media as key to achieving the growth and development of sports in Nigeria as sports are featured daily in the news.
Senator Enoh informed that he would continue to consult and collaborate with stakeholders in the sports industry, and private and corporate organizations towards the realization of the government’s objective of repositioning the sector for economic growth and development of our nation.
The Minister explained that his tour of sporting facilities across the country enabled him to have first-hand knowledge of the state of these facilities and the steps that are best to be taken to bring them back to glory.
He noted that his focus, in addition, is to ensure the development of sports, right from the grassroots because, according to him, the talents are right in there
The Minister, who explained further that he has an open heart for the sector, assured that he will leave no stone unturned in ensuring the development of sports in the country, and as such would also meet with the Presidents and Secretaries of all the sporting federations in the country.
We need to sit down, commit and agree on what we want to achieve with the various federations and the best way to achieve these targets
Enoh added that he would give attention to all sports and not only a selected few, as he would work towards achieving all targets of the administration.
Due to my strong passion to succeed, it will do no good for me to take sides. I am approaching this job with an open mind and at all times, I will support the best. The interest of the nation must always come first.
“I am a Minister of Sports and not a Minister of football or Cricket or basketball”, he said.
Speaking earlier, the Group Sports Editor, Vanguard Newspaper, Mr Tony Ubani assured that the media will continue to partner with the government to ensure the development of sports in the country
This he said, will be done through objective and balanced reportage of all sporting activities.