Nigeria’s Sports Minister, John Owan Enoh, has called for a comprehensive review of the country’s sports federations following the disappointing performance of Team Nigeria at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Speaking at a press briefing at the Nigerian Embassy in Paris, Enoh stated, “As we go back home, we must do everything to prevent future occurrence of the Paris disaster… If this will entail the review of how people are elected to lead our sporting Federations, it will be done.”
Enoh attributed the poor performance to deeper issues, saying, “Team Nigeria’s disappointing performance… does not entail being addressed just by our participation at the Olympics, but it is a product of very many other things that need immediate attention.”
Despite the Ministry’s efforts to support the athletes, Enoh acknowledged, “We did everything… to prepare the athletes adequately and provide them with every financial support, but unfortunately, the performance did not produce any podium finish.”
With elections for the federations approaching, Enoh emphasized the need for reform, saying, “I am aware that the Sports Federations Elections in Nigeria are even tougher than our National Elections… We must set our standards to scrutinize what motivates those vying to run the federations and get only the best hands.”
The Minister’s call for reform aims to enhance the leadership and effectiveness of Nigeria’s sports federations, paving the way for improved performance on the global stage.
