By Jude Opara, Abuja
The immediate past Executive Secretary of the National Agricultural Lands Development Authority (NALDA), Prince Paul Ikonne, has joined other Nigerians and extended his heartfelt congratulations to the national women football team, the Super Falcons for their outstanding performance and victory at the just concluded Africa Women’s Nations Cup (WAFCON).
Prince Ikonne in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Dr. Ujo Justice on Monday described the victory as not only a celebration of athletic excellence but also a powerful reminder of the potential within Nigeria’s sports sector, especially women’s football.
The statement further lauded with pride, the determination, discipline, and patriotic spirit displayed by the Super Falcons, which, according to him, serves as a source of dignity and unity for all Nigerians.
“This remarkable victory has once again placed Nigeria at the pinnacle of African women’s football. It is a testament to the resilience and world-class talent our nation continues to produce. The Super Falcons have proven that with the right support, Nigerian sports can dominate the global stage,” he said.
However, Prince Ikonne used occasion to draw the attention of the Abia state government to the declining state of sports development in the state, particularly the deplorable condition of Enyimba International FC of Aba and charged them to revive the club, which was once the pride of Nigerian after winning back-to-back, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Champions League.
He expressed deep concern that Enyimba International, the only Nigerian club side to have conquered Africa and also inspired millions by putting Aba and Abia state on the global sports map, has become a shadow of its glorious past due to poor management, political interference, and a lack of visionary investment.
“Enyimba International FC is not just a football club; it is a cultural and economic asset to the people of Aba and Abia state. Sadly, what we now see is a politicized and struggling club that no longer commands the respect it once did across Africa. We must return Enyimba to the days of continental glory,” he argued.
“The Abia state government must take urgent steps devoid of politics to reposition Enyimba International FC by investing in modern infrastructure, hiring competent football administrators, and creating a professional ecosystem that allows the club to thrive independently of partisan politics”.
He argued that if properly harnessed, sports can serve as a tool for youth engagement, crime reduction, job creation and international diplomacy.
“As we celebrate the Super Falcons, let us also look inwards and address the rot that has stifled our local sports institutions. Enyimba International FC deserves better. The young talents in Abia deserve a platform to dream and achieve. Sports should unite and develop, not divide and frustrate,” he concluded.
