Local News
Sports Minister Ignites Momentum at Ministerial Retreat, Calls for Improved Service Delivery
In what reflected his commitment to revolutionize Nigeria’s sports sector, the Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh declared open a 2-day ministerial retreat aimed at fortifying the ministry’s mission to deliver its renewed sports development agenda under the visionary leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The retreat, taking place in Abuja, gathered principal officers of the Federal Ministry of Sports Development, creating a vibrant atmosphere for brainstorming and strategic planning to overcome challenges plaguing the sports sector.
Senator Enoh, in his opening address, emphasized the retreat’s primary goal: inspiring a collective commitment to align efforts with the ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ of the Tinubu-led administration. With an infectious optimism about President Tinubu’s commitment to repositioning and instigating positive change across all sectors, Senator Enoh expressed confidence that the retreat would be instrumental in addressing various impediments to optimal sports performance.
Underscoring the importance of close monitoring and evaluation, Senator Enoh highlighted the Ministry’s ambitious plan to engage the private sector actively. “We want to build the trust and confidence of the private sector so that competitions and initiatives of the ministry can enjoy their support and endorsement,” he declared.
Mrs. Tinuke Watti, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Sports Development, underscored the retreat’s necessity in re-strategizing and repositioning the Ministry after its demerger from youth and sports, now re-designated as the Federal Ministry of Sports. Watti urged participants to immerse themselves in meaningful conversations, sharing insights and ideas to foster collaboration and creativity.
“To this end, we shall be looking at the vision, mission, mandate, and structure of the Ministry. Central to the retreat shall be sessions dedicated to strategic planning,” Watti stated. “In the next two days, we will focus on the Ministry of Sports strategic plan and other key policies and mandates that shape our Ministry’s work.”
Throughout the retreat, Watti emphasized the importance of collaborative discussions, knowledge sharing, and innovative thinking, encouraging participants to capitalize on collective expertise and experiences to develop actionable strategies. “I also expect that at the end of this retreat, you will leave this place fully equipped and ready to apply,” she concluded.
As the curtains rise on this transformative ministerial retreat, the sports sector anticipates a wave of progressive changes that will propel it into new heights of excellence, collaboration, and innovation.
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**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.
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