A former executive secretary of the National Agricultural Lands Development Authority (NALDA), Paul Ikonne, has congratulated the Super Falcons of Nigeria for their outstanding performance and triumph at the recently concluded Africa Women’s Nations Cup.
Ikonne described the victory as not only a celebration of athletic excellence but also a powerful reminder of the potential within Nigeria’s sports sector, particularly women’s football.
He praised the determination, discipline, and patriotic spirit displayed by the Super Falcons, which, according to him, serves as a source of pride and unity for all Nigerians.
“This remarkable victory has once again placed Nigeria at the pinnacle of African women’s football. It is a testament to the resilience and world-class talent our nation continues to produce. The Super Falcons have proven that with the right support, Nigerian sports can dominate the global stage,” Ikonne said.
While rejoicing with Nigerians over the historic win, he lamented the declining state of sports development in Abia State, particularly the deplorable condition of Enyimba Football Club of Aba — once the pride of Nigerian club football and two-time back-to-back champions of the CAF Confederation Cup.
Ikonne expressed deep concern that Enyimba FC, a club that once inspired millions and put Aba and Abia State on the global sports map, has become a shadow of its glorious past due to poor management, political interference, and a lack of visionary investment.
“Enyimba FC is not just a football club; it is a cultural and economic asset to the people of Aba and Abia State. Sadly, what we now see is a politicised and struggling club that no longer commands the respect it once did across Africa.
We must return Enyimba to the days of continental glory,” he stated.
Ikonne called on the Abia State government to take urgent, apolitical steps to reposition Enyimba FC by investing in modern infrastructure, hiring competent football administrators, and creating a professional ecosystem that allows the club to thrive independently of partisan politics.
He emphasised that sports development, if properly harnessed, can serve as a tool for youth engagement, crime reduction, job creation, and international recognition. He further urged stakeholders in Abia to treat sports as serious business, worthy of the same strategic planning and investment given to other sectors.
“As we celebrate the Super Falcons, let us also look inwards and address the rot that has stifled our local sports institutions. Enyimba FC deserves better. The young talents in Abia deserve a platform to dream and achieve. Sports should unite and develop, not divide and frustrate,” he added.
Ikonne reaffirmed his commitment to championing youth and sports development in Abia State, expressing hope that the government will rise to the occasion and restore Enyimba Football Club to its rightful place among Africa’s elite.
