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Abdulazeez Abubakar
3 weeks ago
Overview
Why Nigeria failed to qualify for World Cup since my exit as sports minister — Dalung
Former Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Solomon Dalung, has defended his tenure in office, arguing that Nigeria’s inability to qualify for the FIFA World Cup since his departure reflects the impact of his leadership.
Speaking during an interview with Trust TV, Dalung said he left an unmatched record in the ministry, noting that the Super Eagles’ successful qualification for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia occurred under his administration.
He claimed the team achieved the feat without the extensive structures and large budgets that had previously been used.
Dalung, who served between 2015 and 2019, challenged critics who described his performance as poor, asking why Nigeria has struggled to qualify for the World Cup since his exit.
He described himself as the most successful sports minister, citing the renovation and revival of several national sporting facilities during his tenure.
According to him, abandoned projects such as the national swimming pool and paralympic gymnasium at the National Stadium in Lagos were restored, while the indoor basketball court was also revived.
He added that three national mini-stadia were constructed in Daura, Makurdi and Kano, and maintained that he completed projects he initiated within his time in office.
Despite ongoing criticism, Dalung said he remains confident in his achievements, adding sarcastically that he accepts claims of “woeful performance” despite the projects completed during his tenure.
https://blueprint.ng/why-nigeria-failed-to-qualify-for-world-cup-since-my-exit-as-sports-minister-dalung/
