News
Lagos SWAN Seeks New Direction For Sports Under Minister John Enoh
The Executive Chairman of Lagos State Sports Writers Association (SWAN), Olatutu Oladunni has enjoined the new New Minister of Sports, John Enoh to give a new direction for sports administration in Nigeria during his tenure.
Oladunni, while speaking with the Minister during his visit to Lagos during his inspection of sports facilities, said there is a high expectation on Minister Enoh to breathe life into the sports sector which clamours for regeneration and redirection.
The Lagos SWAN boss said her hopes and those in the sports writing fraternity in Lagos and indeed Nigeria are to see a better spirit of rebirth, a pure and uncompromising spirit that directly impacts the positivity and productivity of the sports family and the sporting industry at large.
Oladunni also advised the new Minister to incorporate sports diplomacy which will establish bilateral collaborations and foreign relations with nations which are sports-oriented as this will generate income through sports.
The Sports Minister who listened with rapt attention to the Lagos SWAN chairman expressed his support for what Oladunni was saying, adding that all this would be accommodated in his main points of Agenda for Sports Development and Development of Sports.
On the sports facilities at the National Stadium, Surulere, Sports Minister Enoh said he was happy with the job Kessington Adebutu (Baba Ijebu) and Aliko Dangote are doing at the National Stadium Surulere Lagos and MKO Abiola Stadium, Abuja respectively, adding that it was evidence that the involvement of the private sector is critical to rehabilitation of sporting facilities and sports development.
Meanwhile, the President General of Nigerian Football and other Sports Supporters Club, Dr. Rafiu Ladipo counselled the minister not to surround himself with mediocrity who may mislead him.
“These are praiseworthy singers whose only focus is on what they can earn themselves,” Ladipo said.
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World Cup 20264 hours ago**Title:** Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic **Meta Description:** Slaven Bilic has been appointed Croatia head coach for a second spell after Zlatko Dalic stepped down following the 2026 World Cup. **Slug:** croatia-confirm-slaven-bilic-return-head-coach **Alt Image Text:** Slaven Bilic during his unveiling as Croatia national team head coach — # Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic Croatia have officially confirmed the return of Slaven Bilic as head coach, with the former West Ham United manager replacing Zlatko Dalic following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Bilic returns to the national team after more than a decade away, ending a two-year absence from management as he begins a second spell in charge of his country. ## Bilic begins a second spell with Croatia The Croatian Football Federation (HNS) announced Bilic’s appointment after the Executive Committee unanimously approved the recommendation of federation president Marijan Kustic. Bilic previously managed Croatia between 2006 and 2012, guiding the national team through two European Championships before embarking on a successful club coaching career that included spells with West Ham United, West Bromwich Albion, Besiktas and Al-Ittihad. The federation believes his experience and deep understanding of Croatian football make him the ideal candidate to lead the next generation. ## Huge task replacing Zlatko Dalic Bilic succeeds one of the most successful managers in Croatia’s history. Dalic stepped down after the 2026 World Cup, bringing an end to a remarkable tenure that included a World Cup final, a World Cup semi-final and several memorable tournament campaigns. Federation president Marijan Kustic acknowledged the size of the challenge but expressed complete confidence in Bilic. > “I would like to once again thank Zlatko for the exceptional results he achieved during his tenure. It is not easy to follow in his footsteps, but we are convinced Slaven is the right person for this role.” Kustic added that Bilic’s international pedigree and extensive coaching experience were decisive factors behind the appointment. ## Bilic honoured to return Bilic described his return as the greatest honour of his coaching career and admitted he understands the expectations that come with leading one of international football’s most consistent tournament teams. > “I would like to thank President Kustic and the Federation’s leadership for the confidence they have shown in allowing me to lead the Croatian national team once again — the greatest honour for any Croatian coach.” The 57-year-old also praised the standards established under Dalic while insisting he is ready for the responsibility. > “I am fully aware of the high expectations that follow such a remarkable period under Zlatko Dalic, but anyone who takes charge of Croatia must be prepared for that because we are a football nation that lives and breathes its national team.” ## A new chapter begins Bilic now faces the task of building on Dalic’s legacy while preparing Croatia for the next international cycle. With a blend of experienced stars and emerging young talent at his disposal, Croatia will hope their returning manager can guide them to another successful era on the international stage.