The Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh recently had a chat with Super Eagles footballer, Alex Iwobi after cyber attacks targeting the Fulham star.
This was announced in a statement issued by Enoh’s media aide, Diana-Mary Tiku Nsan on Monday.
“I am aware of what is happening on social media and as a ministry, this is not the first time we are going to make a statement against bullying,” Enoh, who led the Super Eagles of Nigeria home following the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations final against Ivory Coast, said to Iwobi. “Not just you, but our sportsmen and women in general who are exposed to bullying owing to the outcome of competitions,” Enoh added.
“We are worried about the treatment of our athletes.”
Throughout the final AFCON 2023, Iwobi has been the target of several hurtful comments.
Iwobi announced on social media that he will be shutting down after the game.
“After yesterday’s game, I have removed myself from social media,” he declared.
Enoh, nevertheless, gave the former Arsenal player encouragement, stating:
“I am proud of you because you gave your nation your all. You have the support of the nation’s leaders and people in general.
“Just be strong; those who are not belong to the distant minority and do not speak for the rest of our nation.
“You gave it your all, and you were a member of the team that won the silver medal—something the nation hadn’t done since AFCON 2000, which was 23 years ago. I sincerely appreciate that you gave it your all.