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Nigeria’s Sports Minister Holds Meeting with Spanish Regional Sports Secretary to Forge Collaborative Relationship

Nigeria’s Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh held a fruitful meeting with the General Secretary for Sports, Spanish Andalusian region, José Maria Arrabal Sedano, on the sidelines of the World Football Summit in Seville.

The central component of the deliberations on Thursday, were hinged on how to build a collaborative relationship that will emphasize resource and knowledge sharing to advance sports development for national interests.

Senator Enoh said that Nigeria has lessons to learn from the region that has been instrumental in the success of seven-time champions of Europe, Sevilla Football Club.

The Minister stated that Sevilla FC reflects the results that can be achieved from high-level organization in an ecosystem where sports operates at a professional level. He added that Nigerian sports will hope to borrow a leaf from their successful model, as his administration strives towards making sports a major driver of national development.

On the flip side, José Maria spoke extensively on the impactful role sports plays in the economy of Spain. As at 2023, 56% of the Spanish population engaged in one sport or another at least three times a week, which has led to the country saving 6.5 Billion Euros in healthcare expenditure.

Furthermore, he noted that the Government uses sports as a strategic tool to unify cultures, build patriotic values, and life skills.

Both parties expressed optimism about forging a collaborative and mutually beneficial partnership, that will enhance sports on national levels.

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AFCON 2025: Yobo to serve as draw assistant

Former Super Eagles defender Joseph Yobo has been selected as one of the draw assistants for the final draw of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The draw ceremony is set to take place today at the Mohammed V National Theatre in Rabat, Morocco, where the 24 qualified teams will discover their paths to the trophy.

Yobo will be joined by other African football icons, including Mustapha Hadji, Serge Aurier, and Aliou Cisse.

The quartet will not only oversee the draw by selecting balls from the pots but will also share their insights on the tournament groups.

The 2025 AFCON finals will be hosted in Morocco from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026.

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Super Eagles will succeed under Eric Chelle – Sadiq Umar

Super Eagles forward Umar Sadiq has expressed his support for the team’s new head coach, Eric Chelle, and is optimistic about his success in the role.

Chelle was appointed as the Super Eagles’ head coach earlier this month, a decision that has sparked criticism directed at the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

Despite the backlash, Sadiq is confident in the 47-year-old’s ability to lead the team effectively.

“You can see what he did in the last AFCON. Everyone thought Mali was one of the favorites,” Sadiq told Sporty TV.

“You can see how they played. They were so good, but they got knocked out in the quarterfinals because, sometimes, it’s not the best team that wins.

“But I can tell you, I watched a lot of Mali’s games because I have a teammate there. You can see how they play, and it’s clear the coach (Chelle) has a lot of great ideas.”

Chelle’s impressive work with Mali during the previous AFCON has given Sadiq confidence that the coach can bring similar success to the Super Eagles.

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‘I’m happy to be out there’ — Dessers opens up on Rangers exit

Cyriel Dessers has expressed his intention to remain at Rangers beyond the winter transfer window despite speculation about his future.

The Nigerian international began the season as Rangers’ first-choice striker but has since lost his spot to Hamza Igamane.

Dessers has been linked with a return to Italy, with reports suggesting interest from Cagliari and Empoli. Spanish club Leganes is also reportedly keen on signing the former Feyenoord forward.

In a recent interview, Dessers acknowledged plans to discuss his status at the club with senior officials. However, the 30-year-old revealed that no such talks have taken place yet.

“No talks at all. I don’t mind that. I try to focus on the football and the things that are happening on the pitch,” Dessers told the Daily Record.

“Those are the things that I can control. And like Sunday at Tannadice, I’m just happy to be out there with the guys, fighting for the points and being important.

“That’s what I want. There’s a lot of unfinished business at Rangers for me. That’s why I kept pushing in the last weeks—in the gym, in training, and in the minutes that you get.”

Despite his recent challenges, Dessers has had an impressive season, scoring 18 goals across all competitions under manager Philippe Clement.