Senator John Enoh’s recent appointment as Nigeria’s Minister of Sports Development by President Bola Tinubu has stirred debate across the sports sector. Enoh, a seasoned politician from Cross River State without a notable sports background, succeeds former minister Sunday Dare. Unlike previous administrations, Tinubu’s government has split the sports ministry from youth affairs, with Abubakar Momoh, representing Edo State, heading the Ministry of Youth.
Sports analysts and stakeholders have expressed a mix of optimism, surprise, and skepticism over Enoh’s role. Ace sports broadcaster Frank Ilaboya voiced initial surprise but remained hopeful, urging the new minister to build on Dare’s progress and prioritize infrastructure development. Ilaboya underscored the importance of innovation, noting that “sports is the only area that gives Nigerians joy, the only one that speaks one language.”
However, Enoh’s appointment sparked criticism on social media, with enthusiasts and veterans alike questioning his qualifications. Veteran sports journalist Godwin Enakhena and user Seyi Alao implied the decision signaled a lack of presidential interest in sports, while other users highlighted the absence of sports experience on Enoh’s CV as a potential red flag for the sector’s future.
Yet some, like former Gombe State FA Chairman Shuaib Gara-Gombe, reserved judgment, noting that prior sports-affiliated ministers also struggled. He proposed reestablishing the National Sports Commission to enable the minister to focus on policy while leaving sports operations to professionals. Former Badminton Federation President Niran Adeniji echoed a pragmatic view, asserting that a sports background is not mandatory, as effective governance can stem from collaboration with experienced ministry staff.
The former Ogun State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Bukola Olopade, expressed optimism, acknowledging the president’s confidence in Enoh’s corporate governance skills. Olopade anticipates that Enoh’s administration will positively influence the upcoming National Sports Festival in Ogun State.
As Nigeria’s sports community watches closely, Enoh’s effectiveness as sports minister remains to be seen, with many stakeholders hopeful that he will approach his new role with a commitment to foster growth and unity within Nigeria’s cherished sports landscape.
