Sports is the Nation’s strong unifying factor, says Senator Enoh

The Honourable Minister for Sports Development, Senator John Enoh has reiterated that Sports is the nation’s strong unifying factor which has helped to calm down the present economic and security pressure in the country.

He disclosed this when he received the delegation of Commissioners of Sports and Youth from across the States of the Federation in his office at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.

The Minister commended their doggedness in making sure that sporting activities in the nation is organized and  enforcing peace and uniting the nation.

Senator Enoh noted that various training camps in preparation for all African games coming up  in March are ongoing  and so other major activities of the ministry will be on hold till the end of the games

He urged them to keep up the good work and added that other critical issues mentioned will be addressed when the ministry will hold the national council on sports meeting.  

The Minister however promised to seek approval with the Secretariat of the Nigeria Governors Forum  to have a session with them during one of their meetings to address sporting activities that concern states and seek their support in grassroot sports development.

Senator Enoh emphasized on their key role as critical stakeholders in the development of grassroots sports in the country of which they should do their best so that in totality the nation will be able to get back to it’s rightful place  in the continent’s sporting  activities.

The Minister assured them  that the President Bola Amed Tinubu lead  Administration is determined to move sports away from mere recreation to the level of Job creation to alleviate poverty and also ensure promotion of unity and safety in the country.

Speaking earlier, the Permanent Secretary of Sports Development Mrs Tinuke Watti advised  the Commissioners to always and at all times put the interest of the nation above their interest and ensure they provide relevant contributions that will help in driving the development of grassroots sports in line with the policy thrust of the present administration.

Earlier in his address, the leader of the delegation and the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development Plateau State, Hon. Bashir Lawandi,  addressed the need for improved Sports infrastructure across the states and exploring opportunities for collaboration with the Federal Government, and also exploring avenues for increased funding for sports development at both the state and Federal levels including partnerships with private sector entities.

He disclosed plans for participation in the international sporting events to enhance the performance of Nigerian athletes on the global stage.

The commissioner thanked the Minister for receiving them and pledged their unflinching support in the sports development of the country.