Former Minister of Youths and Sports Development Solomon Dalung expressed his concerns regarding Nigeria’s Super Eagles and their performance in the ongoing World Cup qualifiers, highlighting the need for improved sports management and administration.
During an interview at the Palace of the Emir of Ilorin in Kwara State, where he attended a courtesy visit with fellow members of the Social Democratic Party, Solomon Dalung reflected on the challenges the national football team has faced since he left office six years ago. He emphasized that there has been a noticeable decline in performance that calls for urgent attention.
Dalung noted, “The World Cup qualifiers for the Super Eagles have experienced significant challenges in the past six years. We had a remarkable qualification in 2018, but since then, the team has struggled to secure a place in the World Cup.”
He pointed out that the current campaign has discouraged support from fans, suggesting that a renewed strategy is essential for restoring confidence in the team.
Despite the setbacks, Dalung remained hopeful, stating, “There’s still a chance for the team, especially if extraordinary changes occur in our approach.”
He underscored the importance of strong leadership in sports administration, saying, “A committed leadership is crucial for the growth of football and sports in Nigeria.”
He noted that the management of sports has suffered from a lack of clearly defined goals and consistent direction. “As a sports minister, it’s vital to have a vision of what you want to achieve. Frequent changes in policies and leadership have hindered progress. The transition from a dedicated Ministry of Sports to the National Sports Commission has impacted our ability to drive effective sports policies.”
Dalung stressed that even with top coaching staff, the team needs robust political support to inspire the players and engage the broader public for success.
He acknowledged that the recent draw to Zimbabwe was disappointing but suggested that with the right strategies and commitment, there is still potential for the Super Eagles to reclaim their former glory.
“While the latest result has been disheartening, we must learn from these challenges and work together to rejuvenate our football and sports administration,” he added.
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