By Alex Fredrick
The President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), Engr. Habul Gumel, has commended football promoter and President of Water FC Academy, Nureni Makanjuola (popularly known as MK), for his remarkable contributions to the growth and development of football in Nigeria.
Gumel gave the commendation while hosting MK in Abuja on Sunday. The meeting served as a platform for in-depth discussions on the state of Nigerian sports, particularly the challenges and opportunities within the football ecosystem.
Describing MK as a passionate and committed figure in Nigerian football, the NOC President praised his dedication to nurturing young talents through his football academy, which has produced players that have represented Nigeria at various national and international levels.
“Nureni Makanjuola has shown what is possible when private individuals invest in sports development,” Gumel said. “His work with Water FC is a shining example of what passion, vision, and commitment can achieve in Nigerian football.”
The NOC President emphasized the need for greater private sector involvement in sports development, citing MK’s success as a compelling case for more investment from individuals and corporate bodies. He noted that such partnerships are vital for creating opportunities for young athletes and improving Nigeria’s performance on the global stage.
During the visit, both men exchanged ideas on key issues affecting the sports sector, ranging from grassroots development to youth engagement, and agreed on the importance of collaborative efforts to move Nigerian sports forward.
MK’s recognition by the NOC President is seen as a morale booster not only for him but also for other stakeholders committed to the development of Nigerian football. It underscores the value of strategic partnerships and private initiatives in building a sustainable future for sports in the country.
The meeting ended with a renewed call for more investment in sports infrastructure, talent development, and institutional support to unlock the full potential of Nigerian athletes.
