The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), at the end of its National Convention held on the sidelines of the 22nd National Sports Festival – Gateway Games 2024 in Abeokuta, Ogun State, issued the following resolutions:
- The Convention commended the Government and good people of Ogun State for their exemplary hosting of the 22nd National Sports Festival and for providing standard facilities across the 37 sporting events featured.
- SWAN applauded the National Sports Commission (NSC), led by Chairman Shehu Dikko and Director-General Bukola Olopade, for innovations that elevated the standard of the festival, particularly the introduction of the Invited Junior Athletes (IJA) and other organisational enhancements.
- The Convention praised the successful digitisation of the media accreditation process, which ensured seamless communication and effective coverage of the festival.
- On behalf of the sports media in Nigeria, the Convention expressed gratitude to the Governor, His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun, and the hospitable people of Ogun State for their support and commitment to sports development.
- The Convention congratulated SWAN President, Comrade Isaiah Benjamin, and members of his National Executive Committee (NEC) on their legal victory, describing it as a triumph for the integrity of the association. Delegates urged the President to remain magnanimous in victory and focused on uniting and strengthening the association.
- A motion of confidence in the leadership of President Isaiah Benjamin was moved, seconded, and unanimously adopted by the Convention.
- Observations and Recommendations:
A. While sports facilities and athlete accommodations were largely adequate, the wide dispersion of competition venues led to logistical challenges, including late arrivals and Athletes’ fatigue. Future hosts are advised to concentrate venues within a central area to minimise travel distances.
B. Noting several omissions and lapses in journalists’ accreditation, the Convention reiterated its call for SWAN to directly oversee the accreditation process for its members to ensure only registered and eligible practitioners are captured. This would also ease the burden on the NSC.
C. Future host states are encouraged to ensure the provision of a dedicated press gallery at major venues and to establish a functional media centre within the festival’s main hub.
D. The NSC is urged to decentralise talent discovery initiatives by taking development programmes to the grassroots—states and local government areas—while also implementing a structured system for talent identification, nurturing, and mentorship.
E. The Convention emphasised the need for participating states to always prioritise and guarantee the safety of their athletes and officials, particularly through the provision of roadworthy and secure transportation arrangements. Future contingents must take proactive steps to ensure that their logistics, especially travel between venues, meet the highest standards of safety and comfort to protect lives and enhance performance.
- SWAN commended Enugu State for initial move in ensuring it efficiently host the next edition of the festival and wished the State a successful outing in advance. The Convention advised Enugu State to take note of the lapses observed in Ogun State and recommended that the SWAN State Chairman be appointed to head the Media Committee and be integrated into the core planning team to enhance communication and coordination.
Signed:
Chimezie Anaso
Chairman, SWAN Anambra State
Chairman, Communiqué Drafting Committee
Samuel Ahmadu
Secretary, SWAN FCT
Secretary, Communiqué Drafting Committee
Segun Giwa
Chairman, SWAN Ondo State
Member, Communiqué Drafting Committee
Ikenna Okonkwo
Secretary General, SWAN
June 1, 2025
