Sports Ministry, Homeland Films sign MOU to celebrate 1996 Olympic gold

In preparations to celebrate Nigeria’s historic 1996 Olympic gold medal win in Atlanta, the Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Homeland Films. The signing ceremony took place at the Media Centre, Moshood Abiola National Stadium.

Speaking at the event, Senator Enoh emphasized that the Ministry will leverage the power of storytelling to commemorate one of the nation’s greatest sports achievements, aiming to inspire the younger generation and foster a sense of pride, dedication, and patriotism in various sports fields.

Highlighting the unifying power of sports, Senator Enoh said, “Nigerians forgot their different tribes, tongues, creed, and political differences that tend to polarize them. They reveled and danced well into the dawn of the next day. This poignant moment underscored the unifying power of sports. This unity is what we must imbibe today.”

He also stressed the need for a world-class film that tells the story of the 1996 heroics in an enriching and inspiring manner, particularly as the Olympics opening ceremony approaches.

The Sports Minister praised Homeland Films for initiating such a laudable project, which he believes will tell the Nigerian story to the world during a challenging time for the country.

“At a moment like this, what contribution are you making from your sector? The Ministry will use this platform, in collaboration with Homeland Films, to contribute to the country’s economic development,” he said.

Mrs. Mary Ephraim Egbas, president of Homeland Films, expressed her excitement about the project, noting that bringing this story to the big screen aims to honor the legacy of Nigerian athletes and ignite a renewed sense of pride and passion for Nigerian sports.

“The significance extends beyond entertainment. It’s poised to revolutionize the industry in Nigeria and Africa. It would have a profound impact on the sports industry,” she stated.

Egbas highlighted that the collaboration between the Ministry and Homeland Films marks the beginning of an extraordinary journey to bring to life a story deeply embedded in the hearts of Nigerians and sports enthusiasts worldwide.

She added that the project would pay tribute to Nigeria’s sports heroes and inspire future generations to pursue excellence in sports.

While commending the minister for his visionary role in repositioning sports in the country, she added that the collaboration will significantly change the narrative in the sports sector.

Emmanuel Babayaro, a member of the 1996 Dream Team, remarked on the resilience of the team, which culminated in their historic victory, impacting many lives to this day.

The event was attended by prominent figures, including the permanent secretary of the Ministry of Sports Development, Tinuke Watti, the Director General of the Nigeria Film and Video Censors Board, Mr. Shuaibu Useni, Secretary of the Nigeria Football Federation, Mr. Sanusi Mohammed, and other top sports stakeholders and directors of the Ministry.