According to Vanguard, The Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Enoh, has hinted at imminent drastic measures to restore the nation’s struggling football scene.
Speaking on Chief Segun Odegbami’s Eagle7 radio program in Lagos, Senator Enoh expressed his discontent with the current state of Nigerian football and his resolve to act despite the looming threat of a FIFA ban. “I cannot remain silent any longer over the affairs of the NFF due to fear of a FIFA ban. I will continue to walk the fine line that protects the interests and emotions of Nigerians who expect nothing but good results and proper management of our football, so our teams' successes contribute to their happiness and vitality,” he stated.
The minister questioned the threat of a FIFA ban, emphasizing Nigeria’s sovereignty and the significant financial support the government provides. “We are a sovereign country. The government recently spent about N17bn to clear outstanding debts owed by the NFF, not FIFA,” he asserted.
Senator Enoh stressed the importance of football to Nigerians, stating, “Whether we qualify for the World Cup or not may not concern FIFA, but it is crucial to Nigerians. Football is too significant to leave solely in the hands of a few individuals within the NFF.”
He revealed that he recently summoned NFF officials due to dissatisfaction with the outcomes of the World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Benin Republic. He highlighted that the results were unacceptable to the sports ministry, the federal government, and Nigerians.
While criticizing the players for their lack of commitment and passion, Senator Enoh remains hopeful. “We can still qualify if we do everything right in the remaining six matches of the qualifiers,” he concluded.