The Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh, has reiterated the Ministry’s dedication to fostering grassroots development in Nigerian sports.
This commitment was emphasized during a visit by the Southampton Powered Community Hub delegation to the minister’s office on Wednesday.
Read Also: #AFCON23: Igiebor Expresses Confidence In Super Eagles’ Ability To Beat Cameroon In Round Of 16
Affiliated with Southampton FC of England, the Southampton Powered Community Hub aims to contribute to grassroots sports development in Nigeria.
The delegation, including Ed Kilby (Southampton FC Football Development Coordinator), Ben Sharp (Football and Sports Coach), and David Doherty (CEO, TNUK), presented their collaborative vision for advancing grassroots sports in the country.
Senator Enoh highlighted the crucial role grassroots development plays in shaping the future of Nigerian football.
He expressed the Ministry’s openness to collaborative efforts with various stakeholders to drive local-level development initiatives.
The Minister acknowledged the Southampton team’s expertise and commitment, recognizing the potential contributions they can make to football development at the grassroots level in Nigeria.
“The Ministry of Sports Development is resolute in its pursuit of grassroots development as the cornerstone of Nigerian football’s growth.
We welcome collaborations with esteemed partners like Southampton Powered Community Hub, whose dedication aligns with our vision for fostering talent at the local level,” said Senator Enoh.
During the meeting, the Southampton delegation shared insights into their successful grassroots development models and expressed their eagerness to contribute to the advancement of football in Nigeria.
Senator Enoh affirmed that the Ministry would remain open to partnerships with relevant stakeholders, aiming to create sustainable pathways for aspiring athletes and enhance the overall sports landscape in Nigeria.
Southampton FC currently has two Nigerians, Joseph Ayodele Aribo and Paul Ebere Onuachu (on loan at Trabzonspor), representing the country at the ongoing AFCON in Ivory Coast.
