The Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh has showered the Super Eagles midfielder, Alex Iwobi some kind and courage words following cyber bullies against him after AFCON defeat.
Enoh, who led the Super Eagles of Nigeria back home after the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations final against Ivory Coast, expressed concern on how citizens bully Nigeria’s players on social media after losing a match.
This was made known in a statement signed by the Minister’s media aide, Diana-Mary Tiku Nsan on Monday.
In the chat with the Fulham player, Enoh said, “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, not just you but our sportsmen and women in general who are exposed to bullying due to the outcome of competitions.
“We are concerned about how our sportsmen and women are treated.”
The final AFCON 2023 has seen Iwobi experience a routine of unpleasant remarks hurled at him.
Iwobi confirmed leaving social media after the final game.
“For me, I have taken myself out of social media after yesterday’s game,” he said.
Enoh, however, encouraged the former Arsenal star saying:
“You did your best for your country and I am proud of you. The leadership and the rest of the country is proud of you.
“Those who are not are in the far minority and do not speak for the rest of our country, so just be strong.
“You did your best, you are part of a team that brought home a silver medal which the country last won at AFCON 2000, which is 23 years ago. You put in your best, thank you very much.”