Honourable Ekene Adams felicitates with Minister of Sports, Senator John Enoh on his 58th birthday

 

Chairman House Committee on Sports, Honourable Ekene Abubakar Adams, has expressed his felicitation with the Nigeria Sports Minister, senator John Enoh as he marks his 58th Birthday.

"I want to join the rest of the Sports family to congratulate our Sports Minister, as he adds another year today."

Honourable Ekene Adams who represents the good people of chikun/Kajuru federal constituency in the House of Representatives said this is the best time for every sports loving Nigerian to pray for the Minister in order to steer Nigeria Sports to greater height.

"I want to personally send my best wishes to the Minister on this day of his birthday and I pray that he continues to enjoy God's wisdom and guidance as he discharges his duties in office."

Honourable Ekene further used the occasion of the Minister's birthday to reiterate his committee's unwavering partnership with the Sports Ministry in the development of Nigeria Sports in terms of legislation and oversight duties.

Signed 

Media, House Committee on Sports Chairman

Arewa Group carpets Sports Minister's deflective tactics, sees response by Senator Enoh to Hon. Adams an assault

 

Arewa Youth Sports Forum on Saturday berated Sports Minister, Senator John Owan Enoh for employing gutter tactics, by attempting to discredit and deflect the issues as advanced by the House Committee Chairman, Hon. Ekene Adams.

A statement signed by the Coordinator of the group, Comrade Yohanna Pam described the Sports Minister's response as disappointing and a blatant attempt to divert attention from the substantive issues raised by the Honorable Member.

The statement reads,"It is concerning to observe the recent Press Release issued by the Federal Ministry of Sports Development, specifically targeting Hon. Ekene Adams and questioning his credibility and sincerity. While the Ministry attempts to defend the Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh, it is imperative to address certain points raised in the Press Release.

"First and foremost, it is disappointing to note the Ministry's attempt to discredit Hon. Ekene Adams based on his health issues. Implying that his health condition renders him incompetent and out of touch with reality is not only insensitive but a blatant attempt to divert attention from the substantive issues raised by the Honorable Member. It is crucial to remember that personal attacks have no place in constructive discourse, especially within the realm of public service.

"Furthermore, the Ministry's assertion and attempt to belittle the office of that Hon. Adams, reflects a lack of understanding of the principles of democracy and the importance of upholding the dignity of elected representatives. Every individual elected, regardless of their office is higher than a political appointee.Hence,lawmakers deserve to be treated with dignity and respect.The lack of transparency and accountability in Senator Enoh's approach to sports administration has raised concerns among stakeholders, including Hon. Adams, who has highlighted the need for a more responsible and competent leadership in the sector." Pam statement reads.

The statement asked the Sports Minister to stop blaming the CBN for the failure of foreign athletes to receive their payments, noting that his actions is bringing the government President Tinubu to disrepute.

"While defending the Honourable Minister of Sports Development is understandable, it is essential to address the concerns raised by Hon. Adams in a transparent and respectful manner. Constructive dialogue and open communication are key to fostering trust and accountability in governance.Rather than addressing pressing issues such as the delayed payments to foreign athletes who excelled at the African Games in Ghana, as questioned by Hon.Adams, the Minister and Ministry resulted to assault on the lawmaker.We know before now, Senator Enoh has resorted to deflecting blame onto the Central Bank, despite its proven efficiency under the leadership of Olayemi Cardoso, and by extension bringing the Government of President Tinubu to disrepute.

"It is evident that Senator Enoh's tenure as sports minister has been characterized by self-glorification and a disregard for the hard work and dedication of athletes and federation presidents who strive for excellence in sports. His failure to address the challenges facing the sports sector, has only served to exacerbate the existing issues. In contrast, the call for cooperation and collaboration with Hon. Adams, a respected figure in sports with a rich history as both an athlete and administrator, presents an opportunity for Senator Enoh to embrace a more inclusive and effective approach to sports administration in Nigeria.Knowing fully well that the Sports Minister knows nothing in sports administration."The statement reads.

Concluding the statement, Comrade Pam warned the Sports Minister to be careful and trade gently as Mr.President has zero tolerance for corruption

"In conclusion, it is imperative for the minister to know that his present office is at mercy of Mr.President, a man with zero tolerance for corruption.Maybe, the Sports Minister has forgotten how the Tinubu's government is handling Beta Edu's case; coincidentally, they both hail from Cross River state." Comrade Pam concluded his statement.

Olympic Games: National Assembly decries lack of transparency in allocation of intervention funds

 

The 10th National Assembly has raised concerns about the lack of transparency in the allocation of intervention funds for the 2024 Olympic Games to the Ministry of Sports Development.

The Nigeria Government doled out billions of naira each time the country participated in the Commonwealth Games and the Olympic Games. 

The Chairman House Committee on Sports, Hon. Ekene Adams frowned at the situation where most Sports Federation sponsored their athletes to qualify for Olympic Games without Ministry's support but the Sports Ministry receives money from the government on behalf of the sports federations once they have qualified. 

He said, “80% of the National Sports Federation don't get a dime from the funds allocated for them in the budget in each calendar year.”

He therefore advised the Federal Government to ensure that the intervention funds are scrutinised by the National Assembly before they are passed.

“The Bola Ahmed Tinubu led government prioritised transparency and accountability in allocation of funds and the intervention funds for the Olympic Games should follow the same procedure by involving the National Assembly in the scrutiny of the funds. This will ensure that the athletes, coaches and Presidents of the Federations benefit from the funds.

"Transparency in the process is crucial to ensure that the funds are used effectively and efficiently for the development of Sports in Nigeria. Without proper oversight, there is a risk they the funds could be mismanaged or misappropriated leading to waste of resources and missed opportunity to support the dedicated Nigerian athletes who put the country's name on the global map."

He further said, “For instance, foreign athletes who spent their hard-earned money on flight to and fro Ghana for African Games have not received the refund, also, coaches and many other athletes have not received their monetary prize for medals won at the All African Games in Ghana.

“The delay in settlement of these funds will further dampen the spirits of the athletes which in turn may affect Nigeria's performance at the Olympics.

"We must do everything to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Renewed Hope agenda.

The President has been doing everything in making sure that Nigeria is placed among the best in the world and the 10th National Assembly shares same with the President. Therefore, the struggle to place the country among the best should not be left to the Presidency alone."

Signed:

Media Team, Chairman House Committee On Sports

Honourable Adams chides Sports Minister over insincerity, transparency

Chairman House Committee on Sports, Honourable Ekene Adams, says the Minister of Sports Development Senator John Enoh, is not showing enough sincerity in the Country Sports Development goals.

The Lawmaker representing Chikun Kajuru Federal constituency in Kaduna State says the House Committee on Sports has expressed a lot of retrains with it's dealing with the Minister since he was appointed, more especially because he was a former lawmaker but the Minister has not reciprocated with a good level of transparency.

"The House Committee  on Sports and my personal self have been very co-operative with the Minister of Sports all these while but we have discovered it seems he is taking us for granted with some of the things we are seeing so far.

"We decided to accord him the ultimate regard and respect because he is a former legislator but we discovered he is taking us for granted which we find totally unacceptable.

"As he is new in the Sports sector and appointed as a Sports Minister he should ask questions because he came into the sector as a farmer and he should know that some of us are sports technocrats who have been in football for all our life, as former footballer and then administrator.

"For example, why should the Minister still allocate budget for the renovation and maintenance of the Ahmadu Bello stadium in the 2024 budget after the stadium had been handed over to the Kaduna State Government.

"I think as the Chairman House Committee on Sports, we have tried enough to have a smooth and good understanding with the Minister but he is not being sincere with us," he maintained.

Signed 

Media Team, Chairman House on Sports.

Ibrahim Babangida: Hon Ekene Adams offers condolences to Babangida family over tragic death of former Nigeria international

 

The Chairman House Committee on Sports, Hon Ekene Abubakar Adams, has expressed his condolences to the Babangida family following the tragic accident that involved the two former Nigeria football Internationals Ibrahim Babangida and Tijani Babangida.

The fatal accident that occurred along the Zaria/Kaduna Expressway took the life of Ibrahim Babangida who has since been buried according to Islamic rites.

Honourable Ekene who is currently not in the country said it was very sad to hear that Ibrahim Tijani lost his life and he is still in very big shock over the news. He promised to go visit the family the moment he returns to the country while urging Nigerians to keep on praying for the Babangida family.

According to the lawmaker representing Chikun/Kajuru Federal constituency, the Babangida family needs the prayers of every Nigerian at this time because of the nature of the accident that involved the two brothers and other family members.

"This is a very difficult time for the Babangida family and I want every Nigerian to put them in their prayers because they need all our support now more than ever."

"The Babangida family have been a good servant to our country producing great football brothers like Tijani, Haruna and the late Ibrahim Babangida who had represented Nigeria at major tournaments like the World cup and Africa Cup of Nations.

"The Death of Ibrahim Babangida is not just a loss to the Country but a major loss to us in Kaduna because himself and his brother Tijani have been very key to developing young talents and grassroot development in the state for many years."

Honourable Ekene said on behalf of the Speaker of the House of Representatives Hon Tajudeen Abbas, who is also very sad with the news and the House Committee on Sports, the National Assembly will do her best to support the family and be by their side in this critical time.

Signed 

Media , House Committee on Sports Chairman

Chairman House Committee on Sports celebrates godfather, Soname at 58

The Chairman House Committee on Sports in the 10th Assembly, Honourable Ekene Abubakar Adams has joined family and millions of Nigerians in pouring glowing tribute on entrepreneur, philanthropist and sports enthusiast Honourable Kunle Soname as he celebrates his 58th birthday. 

Ekene, a member representing Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency in Kaduna State, didn't hide his delight as he said. 

“I celebrate my 'God Father', Honourable Soname an energetic, vibrant and inspirational leader, whose philanthropic gesture towards humanity knows no bounds. 

"No doubt, Honourable Soname at 58, has contributed to the growth of Nigeria’s economy as well as youth development via the football platforms he has provided Remo Stars and Beyond Limit. 

"On this special day, I pray God to grant him good health, happiness, and continued success in all his endeavours. Cheers to a living lege

African Games: House Committee on Sports frowns at delay in payment of Team Nigeria allowances

The Chairman House Committee on Sports, Honourable Ekene Adams, has expressed disappointment over the delay in the payment of allowances of Team Nigeria athletes at the recently concluded African Games in Ghana.

Nigeria finished second at the Games behind Egypt surpassing her previous record with a total of 47 Gold, 33 silver and 40 bronze medals.

According to the lawmaker representing Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency, it is very sad that many of these athletes who made us proud in Ghana have not been paid their due allowances and bonuses.

"I am very shocked that up till now some of these athletes have not gotten their money days after the conclusion of the African Games.

"For me, it is even more worrisome that these athletes did not get their money before the Easter celebration and I think we should be finding ways to motivate the athletes more so that they can even do more at the Olympic Games in Paris.

"How do we want their family members to feel knowing full well that they couldn't enjoy the Easter celebrations I think this is the kind of thing we need to get right in terms of athletes' welfare."

Honourable Ekene who is also a seasoned Sports Administrator however pleads with the Ministry of Sports Development to swiftly do the needful so that this delay in the athlete's payment should not linger until the upcoming Sallah break.

He further said; "No Sports should be more prioritised than others and these athletes that did the country proud in Ghana deserve their money even if they couldn't get a Presidential handshake.

"I am using this medium to further appeal to the Minister to ensure every payment due to the athletes is sorted as soon as possible because I am aware some of them were only given allowances in Nigeria before they departed for the Games.

Signed: Media House Committee Chairman

AFCON 2023: House Committee on Sports Chairman Hon. Ekene Adams hails Super Eagles for securing final berth with Ivory Coast

Chairman House Committee on Sports Honourable Ekene Adams has again congratulated the Super Eagles for booking  a place in the final at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations in Cote D'Ivoire 

The Super Eagles defeated South Africa Bafana Bafana 4-2 in a pulsating encounter on penalties after a one-all draw in regulation and extra time of the first semi-final in Bouake.

According to Honourable Ekene the Super Eagles have shown great character and determination to be in the final with the quality of play from the group stage to the semi-final.

"I want to congratulate the Super Eagles for another milestone at the ongoing 34th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations because achieving this feat is not an easy task and it is worthy of note that the entire nation is proud  of them."

"As a Committee, we will continue to give necessary support to the team as they prepare for the final stage of the tournament, and as the Speaker had earlier promised the boys will be handsomely rewarded when they return to the country," he stressed.

The Kaduna-born sports administrator stated that the Committee is backing the team to bring back the cup to Nigeria as a repeat of what happened in 2013, charging the players and backroom staff not to relent in their effort to get the job done in the final on Sunday in Abidjan against host Ivory coast.

House Committee on Sports congratulate Nigerians on Super Eagles' AFCON Semifinal berth

 

 ... As Speaker Tajudeen Abbas pledges handsome rewards to players

The chairman house committee on Sports Honourable Ekene Adams has congratulated the Super Eagles for booking a place in the semi final of the Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast.

The Super Eagles defeated Angola one nil at the Felix Houphouet-Boigny stadium in Abidjan on Friday to reach the last four of the tournament.

A first half goal by Ademola Lookman was all the Eagles needed to secure the win.

Honourable Adams said the boys deserved all the praise with the way they have approached the tournament.

He said "I am particularly so happy for the boys and I think they deserve all the support and encouragement at this point to eventually come back home with the trophy."

"These boys have really done us well and their victory against Angola has further sent a message of strong unity despite the challenges the country is facing," he said.

"I want to also specially send the greetings of the Speaker of the House of Representatives Hon. Tajudeen Abbas to the boys because he is also very  proud of them and their resilient performance."

"The Speaker wants to assure the boys that they will be handsomely rewarded if they bring home the trophy".

Infantino, Gusau, Mourinho, Zidane, Ronaldo, Tiger Woods to grace Chikun/Kajuru Constituency Mini Stadium project, Sports Academy -Hon. Ekene

 

Chairman House Committee on Sports, Honourable Ekene Abubakar Adams is set to fulfill his campaign promise of establishing a world class Sports Academy to his  constituency.

According to the lawmaker representing Chikun/Kajuru Federal constituency, Honourable Adams informed that the Federation of International Football Association boss Gianni Infantino, Nigeria Football Federation President Ibrahim Musa Gusau, ormer Chelsea and Real Madrid coach, Jose Mourinho, France and Brazil World Cup legends Zinadine Zidane, Ronaldo de Lima, American golf icon Tiger Woods and Tennis star Serena Williams will grace the foundation laying stone of the sports facility.

Also to storm Kaduna in a yet to be decided date are President of Remo Stars Hon. Kunle Soname, President FC Ebedei, Barrister Churchill Oliseh, and other top stakeholders will be giving fatherly advice on how best the academy can strive.

African legends and Super Eagles legends Didier Drogba, Samuel Eto, Elhadji Diouf, Austin Okocha, Garba Lawal, Daniel Amokachi, Peter Rufai, Victor Ikpeba and a host of others are expected to grace the event.

Recall, His Excellency Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State gave his greenlight to the project with the allocation of 25 hectares of land for the establishment of a Mini Stadium to host a Sports Academy within the Chikun/Kajuru Federal constituency and vowed to make Kaduna a hub for sports business.

This initiative stems from the efforts of Honourable Ekene Abubakar Adams, whose House Committee had hit the ground running since the assumption of office.

The astute football administrator and former General Manager of high-flying Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) side Remo Stars  disclosed that the Federal Ministry of Youths and Sports Development has incorporated the project into its 2024 budget, signaling imminent commencement.

A delighted Adams said: "I want to thank Governor Uba Sani for this project, as he is a die hard sports fan and shares the same vision of using sports to empower the youths in Kaduna State.

"We want to use School Sports to take the youths off the streets. The coming of the FIFA President, other top icons  in sports and of course the former Super Eagles stars will change the orientation of our youths.

"The long run effect of this will amount to a decline in banditry, kidnapping and hooliganism.

"The Sports Academy will go into partnership with top football clubs in Europe like Manchester United, Atletico Madrid, and others. In next few weeks, the Sports Ministry will move to site."

Meanwhile wife of Kaduna North Federal Constituency Rep Member who's Chief Consultant of the project, Mrs Bello El-Rufai stated: "The Sports Academy will be an envy of all, as am giving my assurance that all hands will be on deck, including professionals to making sure we provide a world class sports facility for all sports lovers in Kaduna State."

Recall that during his campaign leading up to the 2023 Elections, the Member representing Chikun/Kajuru Federal constituency pledged to establish a Sports Academy in the region, underscoring his commitment to fulfilling electoral promises.

Doping ban: House Committee on Sports invites NOC, NADO over WADA threat to ban Nigeria

 

The Federal House Committee on Sports has invited the leadership of Nigeria Olympics Committee (NOC) and National Anti-Doping Organisation (NADO) over World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) threat to ban all Nigerian from participating in all sports.

This follows Nigeria's inability to comply with international standard as laid down in the World Anti-Doping code.

After lifting ban on Nigeria in November 2018, WADA is furious that the country has not fulfill the promises made to comply with international Anti-Doping regulations. 

To this end, WADA has concluded plans to ban Nigeria from participating in all sports if nothing is done before the end of August, 2023. 

To save Nigeria from the international embarrassment, the Chairman, House Committee On Sports, Hon. Ekene Adams has invited the leadership of Nigeria Olympics Committee (NOC) as well leadership of National Anti-Doping Organisation (NADO) to a Meeting scheduled for Tuesday 22nd August, 2023. This is to put heads together and come up with plans to stop WADA from the imminent suspension capable of putting the country's image in bad light.

"Anti-doping has become very important in sports that athletes and countries alike can be banned  from participating in sports if they do not comply with international anti-doping regulations." Honourable Ekene said.

He added, "To save innocent athletes and Nigeria from the embarrassment, the House Committee On Sports has mapped out plans to stop the imminent suspension by inviting the leadership of NOC and NADO to appear before it.

"Due lack of time, we need to act as quickly as possible to forestall WADA ban pronouncement at the end of August. Sports is a very important tool for addressing youth restiveness and engaging youth for meaning achievement in life. 

"Nigeria has huge population of youth and the benefit this group gain from sports can not be overemphasized and must not be taken away from them. 

"If Nigeria is banned again, it is the innocent Nigerian athletes that will suffer from it. This Government does not need the distraction and embarrassment the issue of anti-doping will generate for the country nationally and internationally." He concluded. 

Hon. Ekene Adams felicitates with new Sports Minister

 

The Chairman House Committee on Sports Honourable Ekene Abubakar Adams, has congratulated the newly appointed Minister of Sports, Senator John Enoh, saying his vast experience will help the sector to grow. 

According to Hon. Ekene "Let me heartily  congratulate the new Sports Minister Senator  John Enoh, on his well deserved appointment by Mr President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. His trajectory as a foremost  lawmaker who had served in the the Senate will be a huge advantage  to the accomplishment  of his new assignment.  As a former lawmaker he understands the dynamics of every  sector, so I believe he will hit the ground  running."

The Member  Representing Chikun/ Kajuru Federal Constituency assured that his Committee  along with the Senate  counterparts will work in harmony with the new Minister to chart a new direction for Nigerian Sports.

"We are all stakeholders and partners in progress, we are ready to work together in the best interest of our great country. We shall  partner with the Minister  to ensure that Sports takes center stage in our nation's development history."

Enoh is Nigeria's 36th Sports Minister and succeeds Sunday Dare who served for four years under former President  Muhammadu Buhari.

House Committee on Sports assure Nigerians on finding lasting solution to recurring unpaid bonuses of national teams

 

... holds fruitful meeting with NFF 

The Meeting between the 10th Federal House Committee On Sports and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) at the National Assembly on Tuesday aimed at restoring peace in Nigeria football ended with resolutions to get the country's football back on track.

The Committee also charged the NFF to resolve the issues regarding the two affected State Football Associations (Plateau and Nasarawa) where Normalisation Committees were set up.

To this end, the Committee stated that the NFF should respect their statue.

"What we are simply saying following petitions received from the two State FAs is that the Federation should respect and go back to their statute to restore peace and order in Nigeria football," the Chairman House Committee on Sports, Honourable Ekene Adams said.

Meanwhile, the President of the Federation, Ibrahim Gusau assured the House Committee that all the lingering issues regarding the State FAs elections will be resolved amicably within three weeks and would revert back to the House on the resolution.

The Committee and the Federation agreed to work together and find lasting solution to the recurring unpaid bonuses of all national teams.

When asked about the payment of the Super Falcons players, the Federation said it would be paid as soon as the money is received from FIFA.

As regards Awalu Baba Jara who was suspended following allegation of match fixing, the Federation has assured the House Committee on Sports to give the alleged offender fair hearing before final decision could be taken.

Afrobasket: Hon Ekene Adams celebrates D’Tigress historic win

 

Chairman House Committee on Sports Honourable Ekene Abubakar Adams has congratulated Nigeria’s female basketball team, D’Tigress for winning the 2023 FIBA Women’s Afrobasket Championship for the fourth consecutive time in a row.

The Rena Wakama- led D’Tigress proved their dominance in the women's basket after edging 11-time African champions, Senegal 84-74 to claim their sixth championship at the BK Arena in Kigali, Rwanda on Saturday.

Saturday's trump, means D’Tigress will compete for a spot at the women’s basketball event of the 2024 Olympics.

Adams, a member representing Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency, Kaduna State in the 10th House of Representatives; could not hide his delight after the feat.

"Congratulations to our women's Basketball team- D’Tigress and the entire backroom staff. The team has showed their dominance in the sport in Africa, and they showed the Nigeria never-say-die attitude going unbeaten in Kigali.

"The team showcased their talent to Africans and the world as they kept fans seated on their edge of their seats with quality basketball skills all their games at the BK Arena.

"Rena Wakama have also made Nigerian women proud, as she was the was the only female coach at the 2023 FIBA Women’s Afrobasket Championship and she did better what any man can do at the event.

"Kudos to the Nigerian Basketball Federation (NBBF) on the choice of Wakama, as its has now proven to be well-thought-out as she brought her wealth of experience, having previously represented Nigeria as a national team player.

"Am pouring praise on Amy Okonkwo too, as was a star, having played a huge role in helping Nigeria clinch the 2023 FIBA Women's AfroBasket, and, as a result, the 26-year-old was named the TISSOT MVP of the tournament.

"Recall, throughout Nigeria's unbeaten run (5-0) in the Rwandan capital of Kigali, Okonkwo was the heart -and-soul of the D'Tigresses, averaging a team-high of 17.2 points while contributing 8.2 rebounds per game.

"Along the way, Okonkwo became the only Nigeria to register two double-doubles (Murjanatu Musa registered one).

"A heroic welcome awaits them, as I, my House Committee on Sports memeber and well-meaning Nigerians will be at the airport to welcome them."

Saturday's trump, means D’Tigress will compete for a spot at the women’s basketball event of the 2024 Olympics.

Honourable Ekene solicits media synergy on sports development

Chairman House Committee on Sports Honourable Ekene Abubakar Adams says a healthy synergy with the media, can propel the growth of the sporting industry in Nigeria as they seek more corporate Nigeria funding of the sector.

Adams, a member representing Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency in Kaduna State was named chairman of the sports committee in the 10th House of Representatives two week ago.

In his second interactive session with the sporting media in Ikenne that had top Sports Editors and Sports Bloggers in attendance, after he did same in Abuja, the former General Manager of Remo Stars, solicited support of the fourth estate of the realm and unity of all stakeholders to bringing back the lost glory in sports in Nigeria.

"I know the important role the media plays and for Nigeria sports to achieve its desired goal, the House Committee on Sports seeks a good synergy with the sporting media.

"The stakeholders in the sports sector all need to embrace peace, as an enabling environment can make sports thrive as we seek to empower our youths.

"As Chairman of House Committee on Sports; my team and I, have embarked on a journey. We will consult widely by meeting sports technocrats and corporate Nigeria to see how we can revive and achieve success in our sports."

Honourable Ekene Adams, responding on the issues of sports policy implementation and how his committee intends to work with a yet to be named Minister for Sports and Youth Development.

"Implementation of these policies has been the issue, but am aware that the National Sports Commission bill had been passed by the 9th assembly, as what is left is for the executive to sign it into law. I want to assure the media that the 10th assembly will do all it can to making sure that the bill see the light of the day.

"On the question of the Sports Minister, am quite sure that the new Minister won't have a selfish interest in sports, as he too wants to match the standard left by Sunday Dare and possibly raise the bar. So as Chairman of House Committee on Sports, we will share with him a common ideology, all geared towards the growth of sports and youth development."

"I want to say this before you that, it's time we put behind our selfish interests, greed and let technocrats to come and manage sports in Nigeria.

"Sport belongs to the private sector, as you don't relegate corporate Nigeria and think they will invest in our sports. If we wust see sports funding beyond government, then we must focus on corporate NIgeria.

"Corporate Nigeria won't come to our sports if we don't give them assurances as regards tax rebates and if the media reports the negatives. So it's time we begin to change the narratives."

Ex Remo Stars' GM, Honourable Ekene Adams announced as Chairman House Committee on Sports

Honourable Ekene Abubakar Adams, a member representing Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency in Kaduna State has been named Chairman House Committee on Sports in the 10th House of Representatives. 

The House of Representatives Speaker, Tajudeen Abbas, named the committees and their chairmen on Thursday.

A delighted Honourable Ekene Adams said on Thursday, "Good evening all, I am using this medium to appreciate God Almighty and also thank you all for your prayers and best wishes. I have been appointed as the Chairman House Committee on Sports. To my boss, President of Remo Stars Football Club of Ikenne, Honourable Kunle Soname and everyone I remain loyal."

Adams, is no new face in Nigeria sports as his pedigree  is football management speaks volumes. Born in 1985, Adams is a Nigerian entrepreneur, politician,  an astute sports administrator and former professional footballer.

A few years ago, Ekene established KADA City FC, a Nigerian football club based in Kaduna, to enhance development of football within Kaduna. He was regarded as the youngest football club owner in Nigeria.

KADA City was created to promote development of football within Kaduna state. They had their official unveiling ceremony in February 2018. KADA City won the 2018 Nigeria National League promotion playoff over Bendel Insurance F.C. and made their Nigeria Premier League debut in 2019.

The sports administrator would later join Remo Stars as General Manager in 2021. During his time with the Sky Blue Stars, Honourable Ekene Adams propelled the club in gaining promotion back to the NPFL and after one season in the top flight, Remo Stars earned a CAF Confederation Cup ticket after finishing 3rd on the log behind Rivers United and Plateau United.

Honorable Ekene Adams sets for sports tour in Europe, United States

 

Poised to fulfil one of his campaign promises to the good people of Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency by establishing one of the best citadel of learning for Sports/Football in Africa, House of Representatives Member, Honourable Ekene Abubakar Adams is set to embark on a sports tour.

The sports tour will take the vibrant football administrator, businessman and philanthropist to three countries in Europe, (Switzerland, France, Portugal), the United States of America and Brazil.

Honourable Adams disclose to his Media Aide in a brief chat during the week in Abuja.

"After getting the greenlight from international sports consultants, I will be on a sports tour of Europe, the United States and Brazil, for the first ever Sports Development programme for Schools and Academies," said Honourable Ekene Adams.

"My travel will be towards the end of next month, as the  Green Chamber will be on its first recess for two months. I will be consulting with stakeholders and best experts in the field of football, basketball, tennis, volleyball, handball, wrestling amongst other sports.

"My first port of call, will be in Switzerland, the Zurich headquarters of the Federation of International Football  (FIFA), where I'll meeting football experts and get the required blueprints on how to develop the round leather game at school level.

"The idea of my visit to France and Portugal, is to see how they have developed their tennis, handball, wrestling and other sports, that has made them the best in the world.

"You cannot talk about basketball and not make reference to the United States. Though Europe and China are doing respectively well in the sport; however, the NBA has got a global attention as its a top brand.

"I will be interacting with experts to have a first hand knowledge about the module they have used to develop their basketball and see how we can bring the US basketball culture to Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency.

"Brazil is rated among the top 5 in volleyball and beach volleyball, with a view of growing the sport in my constituency and indeed Nigeria, arose the need to visit the Americas.

"Its my belief that our youths can be empowered via sports and aside establishing one of the best sports/football school in Africa as one my campaign promises, I have not held back in the making life meaningful to humanity. 

"I will keep providing health facilities and assistance to the needy, provide transformers to boost electricity, make soft loans available for people who are into small scale businesses."

'Plan your present for a better future', Hon. Ekene Adams charges Nigerian players

 

Honourable Ekene Abubakar Adams has charged Super Eagles stars and their counterparts in the Nigerian domestic league to plan for life after their peak in football.

Honourable Adams, House of Representatives member on the platform of the Labour Party (LP), representing Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency of Kaduna State gave the charge during a dinner in his honour by All Stars Football Club, Yelwa, Kaduna State Chapter.

The All Stars Football Club, Yelwa, is made up of all ex-footballers (veterans) of the beautiful round leather game, that are resident in the state.

In his thought-provoking speech, Honourable Adams while showering praises on Super Eagles winger, Simon Moses and other VIPs at the event said: "I want to express my delight in the honour given me with this dinner by the leadership and members of All Stars Football Club, Yelwa.

"I have seen it all in football, as a former player, club manager/owner and now a lawmaker in the Green Chamber, so I feel pained when I see players who made a career out of the round leather game, living in poverty after they retire.

"Many of such players during their peak in football were ignorant, had unnecessary egos, didn't invest wisely, let alone give back to society. Not knowing that, when you give to society, it will accept you with open arms when you come back.

"A few kind hearted Super Eagles stars like Moses Simon to mention a few are giving back to their society and I want other Nigerian players to emulate him in this regard.

"My new status as member representing Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency in the Green Chamber, didn't come cheap, as I believed in it, struggled and worked hard to achieve it.

"Irrespective of that, my success is all geared towards giving back to society. I have not relented and will continue serving humanity as in the last one week I have done a project worth N120 million with collecting a kobo from the government.

"However, it's sad that despite all the efforts I have put over the years in trying to make football an envy for all in Kaduna State, I am being crucified for no just cause.

"Many of you who toll that line are just being naive and used as tools by politicians who have no positive agenda for the development of football in Kaduna let alone Nigeria.

"For the fact that we don't share the same football ideologies, those crucifying me forget I have made more impact in football viz-a-viz empowering our youths in and out of Kaduna with KADA City Football Club.

"Many of you (internationals) didn't know that I coughed out N9.6 million monthly to players and staff of KADA City. 

"Without contributing anything to football development, they sit in their comfort zones trying to destroy the football ecosystem I have built in the state.

"For the game to reach it's highest pedals, we all must stop the blame game, throw away our different ideologies, and find common grounds to develop football in Kaduna and indeed Nigeria."

Referee Assault: 'I was breathing on Oxygen when Ref Ukah claimed I assaulted him', suspended Remo Stars GM denies allegation

 

Remo Stars General Manager, Ekene Abubakar Adams says he is yet to come to terms with while breathing with oxygen aid during the botched NPFL home game between Remo Stars and Gombe United, that he earned a ban from the Interim Management Company (IMC) on the allegation that he assaulted match referee Ndubuisi Ukah from Imo State.

The Sky Blues Stars became the third team to be docked three points and three goals by the IMC among other punishments imposed on the club.

Ukah claimed that he was assaulted in the dressing room at halftime as a result of Remo Stars' failure to provide adequate security for the match officials.

In Ukah's report, he alleged that Ekene Adams was the attacker, and the IMC wasted no time to ban him from all NPFL activities for the rest of the season. The IMC further directed Remo Stars to ensure diligent prosecution in the law court, of the club's General Manager.

Adams, now members-elect of the House of Representatives while speaking with the sporting press gave his side of the event.

"There is no iota of truth in the match's official claim. That I was alleged to have assaulted Ukah and banned temporarily from all related Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) activities without any proper investigation and fair hearing on my part from the Interim Management Company (IMC), beats my imagination and also raises questions.

"This for me is prejudice and a way to cut short the ambition of Remo Stars to finish the season among the top 3 teams and feature in the Super 6 playoff.

"How can I stoop so low, to the level of assaulting a match official? The allegation is just cheap blackmail to rubbish my character and the good pedigree that took me years to build for myself in Nigeria football.

"I did not intend to join issues with the IMC, but as a credible stakeholder in Nigeria's football family, I just want to put the fact straight.

"I have never come close to molesting nor traded punches with any match official before or after a game. 

"Owing to my health recovery status, I was breathing with the aid of oxygen on the day of the NPFL game.

"So it was my crime to go into the dressing room to ask questions that needed begging answers from the match officials, as the ref was just out there acting on a script given to him and he perfected it well.

"If it's now a crime to go the match officials' dressing room, it means many club administrators should be banned as well, as the IMC should refer to one that has not gone to the dressing room to ask questions during the match interval.

"How demeaning it was and after many appeals, the Ukah refused to continue with the game. At 8:00pm (that night) he hurriedly checked out of his hotel room in the company of a few policemen without informing the host team. Not the IMC cared to ask questions about why he did that. To make matters worse, the new official (Reserve Referee) who stood in for him to complete the game added salt to injury, as he was biased."

"I want to thank all that have shown concern regarding the issue for their love and care. The IMC has done good, telling me to have a break from football.

"Mind you, don't deviate Adams from crises as being principled, one that stands for justice and never bends the rules. Did I say I didn't go to the dressing room, I did but never assaulted ref Ukah."

Adams will represent the good people of the Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency in the 10th National Assembly after he clinched his ticket under the platform of the (Labour Party).

House of Reps Member-Elect Ekene Adams thanks Hon. Soname on election victory

 

Sports Administrator, now members-elect of the House of Representatives, Ekene Abubakar Adams has given glory to God as he specially thanked the President of Remo Stars Football Club of Ikenne, Honourable Kunle Soname. 

Adams will represent the good people of the Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency in the 10th National Assembly and clinched his ticket under the platform of the (Labour Party) in the elections of the lower legislative chamber, held alongside the presidential on Saturday 25 February.

Adams, who was General Manager of Remo Stars before he clinched the ticket could not hide his delight after he and other 324 members-elect of the Green Chamber were presented their certificate of return by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) at the International Conference Centre, Abuja.

While speaking when he presented his certificate of return issued him by INEC as a member-elect to Soname, Ekene Adams showed encomiums on the billionaire gentleman, business mogul, philanthropist and passionate football lover.

"I give glory to God, my family and the good people for giving me the mandate to serve them in the Green Chamber. All credit goes to Soname for his father's role in my political growth.

"I must from everything that I have learnt from him (Soname) in the many years I have been with him, serve humanity. Without him, we wouldn't have been talking about this feat that I just achieved.

"Soname is not keen about 'God-Fatherism' but he is my political 'godfather, as he's a government despite not holding any position in government, he doesn't have a tribal or religious bias as he sees every Nigerian as one.

"Our philanthropic gesture is what we learnt from him as it knows no bounds. At KADA City in the NPFL four years ago, he single-handedly paid monthly salaries and other logistics, regardless the club was based in Kaduna.

"As a branch of his good works, we must emulate him by making this new government better for the common good of all Nigerians.

"We have nothing to offer Soname than to extend the hands of goods to people. My prayer to God is to keep Soname alive for Nigerians 

"Without much ado, I had to come to present my certificate of return to him, as a member-elect in the 10th National Assembly.

"I want to state here clearly that others and I, are his products and will remain his product."