It’s essential to address the broader context in which the accusation from Daniel Bwala arises, and to clarify both the responsibilities and accomplishments of the Sports Minister.
First, it is important to note that Daniel Bwala, who has a history of political shifts, moving from APC to PDP due to objections over the Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket, only to return to support Tinubu after his victory, has positioned himself as a critic. His most recent attempt on X to lay the blame for Nigeria’s poor performance in the just-concluded Olympic Games squarely at the feet of Senator John Owan Enoh seems more like an opportunistic attack than a reasoned critique. This behavior aligns with his apparent pattern of seeking relevance in any political context, as pointed out by Senator Ali Ndume, who referred to Bwala as a “failed lawyer who talks for a living.”
Bwala’s focus on the Sports Ministry alone appears selective and lacks a broader understanding of the challenges facing the entire Nigerian government. If Bwala is genuinely concerned about Nigeria’s global standing, he should expand his critique beyond the sports sector. The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), headed by a South Western man, is grappling with significant inflation challenges, yet Bwala has not been as vocal about this issue. It raises the question of why his criticism is narrowly targeted at Senator Owan Enoh, a man known for his dedication and determination in the face of systemic challenges.
Moreover, the performance of the Nigerian national team in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) under Senator Owan Enoh’s tenure is a testament to his capability and commitment to improving Nigerian sports. AFCON remains one of the few bright spots for Nigeria in recent times, and this achievement came during Senator Owan Enoh’s stewardship. It demonstrates that, despite the broader difficulties, Senator Owan Enoh has been able to bring about positive results.
Bwala’s return to the APC and his subsequent attacks appear to be motivated by a desire to curry favor with the current administration, possibly in the hope of securing a position or gaining influence. His criticisms, therefore, should be seen in the light of his personal ambitions rather than a genuine concern for Nigeria’s sports or other sectors.
Senator John Owan Enoh remains committed to his role as Sports Minister, working tirelessly to improve Nigerian sports. While challenges persist, they are not unique to the sports sector, and Bwala’s selective outrage only highlights his inconsistency and ulterior motives. The achievements under Senator Owan Enoh, particularly in AFCON, should be recognized as evidence of his capability and dedication to Nigerian sports.