The Minister for Sports Development, John Owan-Enoh, revealed that President Bola Tinubu has given a clear nod to the clearance of outstanding payments for national teams and coaches, amounting to a substantial twelve billion naira (N12b). This momentous decision underscores President Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to the development of sports in the country.
Addressing a diverse audience at the thanksgiving service on Saturday, Owan-Enoh expressed his gratitude for the unprecedented support shown by President Tinubu. He emphasized that no other president has demonstrated such dedication to the advancement of sports in Nigeria.
According to the minister, the senior national team coach had not received payment for a staggering 15 months, with a salary totaling about $1.350 million. The backlog included unpaid allowances and promises, accumulating to approximately N12 billion. President Tinubu’s approval of these payments reflects a significant step toward fostering happiness in Nigerian homes, particularly through the triumphs of national sports teams.
Minister Owan-Enoh encouraged the senior national team to recognize the weight of their responsibilities, with the entire nation eagerly anticipating the outcomes of their matches. He further acknowledged the controversial nature of the sports sector but expressed confidence in navigating through challenges without succumbing to unnecessary controversies.
Highlighting the upcoming AFCON game and the subsequent global competitions such as the Olympics and Paralympics, Minister Owan-Enoh reiterated the government’s commitment to making a lasting impact on sports development in the country.
Dignitaries from various sports federations, including heads of different sports bodies, graced the occasion to witness this historic announcement. A statement from the X handle of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Media Center detailed that the approved payment covers senior national team coach salaries for 15 months, as well as outstanding allowances and promises owed to the senior national teams, female teams, and the Under-20 national team.
