By Paul Joseph
Former Minister of Youth and Sports, Solomon Dalung, has defended his tenure, asserting that Nigeria has not qualified for the FIFA World Cup since he stepped down from the Sports Ministry.
Dalung made these remarks during an interview with reporters, addressing inquiries about his performance as minister.
He noted that Nigeria’s last World Cup participation in 2018 occurred while he was in charge.
He stated that the Super Eagles qualified for the 2018 World Cup in Russia without the extensive government support that had been typical in previous years.
Dalung pointed out that prior to his time in office, World Cup qualification efforts often depended on a presidential task force with substantial funding.
He claimed to have achieved qualification without such backing and with one match remaining.
He challenged critics of his tenure, questioning why Nigeria has not made it back to the World Cup since he left the ministry.
The former minister also proclaimed himself the most successful Youth and Sports Minister Nigeria has had, highlighting various sports facilities he claimed were revitalized during his time in office.
Dalung mentioned that the national swimming pool at the Lagos National Stadium, which had been neglected for over two decades, was renovated and put back into use under his leadership.
He also noted the restoration of the paralympic gymnasium and basketball indoor court at the same stadium.
Additionally, Dalung stated that he initiated and completed three national mini stadiums in Daura, Makurdi, and Kano, claiming he was the only sports minister to finish projects he started within his term.
In a sarcastic tone, Dalung expressed his acceptance of being labeled as underperforming, despite the accomplishments he outlined.
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