Former Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Enoh, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his bold decision to scrap the Ministry of Sports Development and transfer its responsibilities to the National Sports Commission (NSC).
The handover ceremony took place today at the Media Center of the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abuja, marking the official transition of duties from the now-defunct ministry to the newly appointed NSC chairman, Shehu Dikko.
Speaking during the ceremony, Senator Enoh praised highlighted the importance of restructuring the sector to foster a vibrant sports economy.
“The singular decision taken by Mr president to scrap the Ministry of Sports Development and get it replaced with National Sports Commission is positive,” Enoh said.
He stressed that the sports sector is dynamic by nature and should not be bogged down by bureaucratic bottlenecks typical of civil service operations.
“The president made a comment that Sports has no business being subjected to everyday bureaucratic bottlenecks that the civil service continues to offer or represent and I more than agree with Mr president.
“From the peculiar nature of sports funding, the dynamic nature of the sector and above all the national sports industry sports that talks about driving sports as business more than justify what Mr president’s decision is about the sector.”
Achievements and Pending Commitments
During his speech, Enoh reflected on his achievements while in office and provided updates on pending projects.
He noted that the promises made to the AFCON team that won silver in Côte d’Ivoire are nearing fulfilment.
However, he mentioned that some follow-up will be required with the FCT Minister to complete the process.
Additionally, Enoh expressed his full support for the new commission, emphasizing that the NSC will be better equipped to unlock the business potential of sports in Nigeria.
Senator Enoh concluded his remarks by welcoming NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko to his new role and wishing him success.
“I welcome Shehu Dikko to the sector, he is after all not new here, I wish him well, you have my best wishes.
