The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), yesterday, expressed its support for Sports Minister, Senator John Owan Enoh’s “comprehensive and inclusive strategies aimed at advancing sports development across the nation without bias towards any particular sport.”
In a statement signed by its national Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA said that it conducted a thorough evaluation of the criticism directed at the minister, “concluding that such censures lack substantial evidence upon scrutiny.”
Addressing the allegations raised in a recent editorial, which accused the minister of being minister of football, HURIWA asserted that these accusations are baseless and fail to grasp the broader context of the minister’s initiatives.
The body emphasised the significance of accountability within sports administration, applauding Senator Enoh’s efforts in advocating for transparency within the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF). The association stressed that criticising these efforts as inappropriate undermines the imperative for transparency and progress within Nigerian football.
HURIWA also “underscored that failures within other sports cannot be singularly attributed to the Minister of Sports. Instead, they often stem from systemic challenges necessitating comprehensive solutions, which Senator John Enoh has actively pursued during his tenure.
“Accountability is a crucial aspect of the minister’s role, and demanding transparency from the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) is a legitimate endeavor aimed at improving Nigerian football for the benefit of all stakeholders. Criticizing such efforts as tactless undermines the quest for transparency and improvement within the football administration.”
HURIWA added: “Senator John Enoh’s interventions with the NFF and other stakeholders should be viewed as proactive measures aimed at maximizing the potential of Nigerian football rather than unwarranted interference. His initiatives, such as urging the NFF to implement a 10-year football master plan and facilitating the release of funds to settle outstanding debts, underscore his commitment to the sport’s holistic development.”
The association acknowledged Senator John Enoh’s support for diverse sporting disciplines, including athletics, wrestling, boxing, and basketball.
“His active involvement in securing funds and improving conditions across these sports underscores a broader focus than suggested, it said, adding: “Under Senator John Enoh’s leadership, the Ministry of Sports has embarked on initiatives aimed at improving athletes’ performance through scientific and technical support. The establishment of the Ministerial Podium Performance Team, led by Professor Ken Anugweje, exemplifies the ministry’s commitment to optimizing athletes’ potential and enhancing Nigeria’s competitiveness on the global stage.”
HURIWA also commended Nigeria’s renewed commitment to combating doping, signifying the nation’s resolve to uphold integrity in sports and adhere to international standards.
“The association believes that his efforts to promote transparency, accountability, and excellence across various sporting disciplines deserve recognition and support from all quarters.”
