Sports Minister berates NFF SG Sanusi an for attempt to silence Eguavoen during the meeting with Peseiro over AFCON plans

Sports Minister of Sports Development, John Owan Enoh during the week scolded the NFF SeSecretaryeneral Mohammed Sanusi for attempting to silence the federation’s  Technical Director Austin Eguavoen during a high-level meeting between the leadership of the NFF, and Coach of the Super Eagles, Jose Peseiro to deliberate on strategic plans and preparations for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The collaborative session, held at the Minister’s office in Abuja, focused on fostering synergy and solidifying a comprehensive roadmap to ensure optimal preparations and success for the senior national football team at the highly anticipated tournament.

During the meeting, Eguavoen told Enoh that Peseiro does not carry the technical department of the NFF along in his plan for the national team nor consult the department on important issues like players selections, camping plan, integration of home-based players into the national, and others.

 Before Eguavoen could finish intimating the minister about his department's zero relationship with the Eagles’ coach, Sanusi told the former Super Eagles captain to shut up and that the problem between the technical department and Peseiro is an internal matter that would be handled internally by the NFF.

Sanusi's attempt to gang Eguavoen was said to have drawn the ire of Enoh who according to sources close meeting lambasted the Sanusi for trying to cover up challenges the national team was facing.

Earlier in the meeting, Enoh reiterated the government’s unwavering support for Nigerian football and emphasized the significance of meticulous planning and cohesive strategies to propel the national team to victory at the AFCON.

“Our country is so passionate about football, such that amidst all other sports, football is about the only sport that has an entry in the nation’s national budget. That is how important football is because whatever happens to it, happens to us as a country.

 “After 10 years, the country is thirsty to win the AFCON. It will matter a great deal to the Nigerian people, and to the Government of President Asiwaju Bola Tinubu. It is important to not just leave the task to the NFF alone, but the government is also interested in being able to tell the Nigerian people what is being done in that regard,” the minister said.

He stated that the AFCON represents a pivotal opportunity for the national team to showcase its strength and resilience on the continental stage. The meeting underscores the Ministry’s commitment to providing all necessary support and resources to ensure the Super Eagles’ readiness and competitiveness at the tournament.

NFF president, Ibrahim Musa Gusau, in his remarks, assured Nigerians that there is no need to panic saying all hands are on deck and working round the clock to ensure the country flies high at the AFCON in Cote d’Ivoire. He added that the NFF is committed to making sure the country performs well at the championship.

Coach Peseiro while appreciating the collaborative efforts of the Minister and the NFF reiterated his commitment to steering the Nigerian national team towards excellence.

He highlighted the significance of robust preparation and emphasized that the technical crew will work with the players to sort out grey areas and bring joy to Nigerians.

The meeting while commending the dedication and professionalism exhibited by Peseiro and the NFF said efforts are ongoing to settle outstanding issues with the coach and assured him of an enabling environment to help the team thrive.

The NFF delegation at the meeting also included 1st vice president, Felix Anyansi-Agwu, General Secretary, Mohammed Sanusi, Technical Director, Augustine Eguavoen, Chairman of the technical Committee, Sharif Inuwa and Director of international competitions, Dayo Enebi.