NSC COMMENDS DEDICATION OF SWAN TO PROMOTION, DEVELOPMENT OF SPORT IN NIGERIA. .... Pledges Support For 60th Anniversary

DG NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade receiving an award from Mr. Isaiah Benjamin, the National President of SWAN on behalf of the Chairman of the Commission ahead of the 60th Anniversary of SWAN.

.... As DG NSC, Bukola Olopade Olopade highlights the Association's doggedness, sincerity, and straightforward approach to reporting, which have significantly contributed to the promotion and development of sports in Nigeria. 

"The 60th Anniversary of SWAN is not just a celebration of our past; it is a commitment  to the future of sports journalism." Mr. Isaiah Benjamin, National President of SWAN. 

The Director General of the National Sports Commission, Honourable Bukola Olopade has lauded the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) for its unwavering commitment and integrity in sports journalism.

Speaking during a courtesy visit by the SWAN National Leadership to his office at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, Honourable Olopade highlighted the Association's doggedness, sincerity, and straightforward approach to reporting, which have significantly contributed to the promotion and development of sports in Nigeria. 

Honourable Bukola also praised the exemplary leadership of the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko.

He noted that Mallam Dikko's visionary style has propelled remarkable growth within the commission, yielding visible results across various initiatives. 

"I have thoroughly enjoyed working with him, and his guidance has made my role considerably simpler," Honourable Olopade remarked.

Furthermore, the Director General assured SWAN of the Commission's full support for its upcoming 60th Anniversary, emphasising the importance of recognising the association's longstanding contributions to Nigerian sports. 

He also thanked the Leadership for the award given him, while noting that he will always cherish the honour.

"In deep appreciation I am receiving this award on behalf of the Chairman who is the leader of the commission and for your recognition of our inputs to the development of sports in Nigeria," he said.

"The National Sports Commission remains committed to fostering strong partnerships with media stakeholders to advance the nation's sporting agenda."

Speaking earlier, the National President of SWAN Mr. Isaiah Benjamin in the company of the National Secretary Mr. Ikenna Okonkwo and other executives, officially announced series of remarkable events scheduled for the Association's Diamond Jubilee Anniversary, set to take place on October 30-31, 2025.

As part of the milestone celebration, SWAN plans to honour 60 of its dedicated members who have demonstrated exceptional commitment and excellence in sports reporting over the years. This recognition aims to highlight the invaluable contributions these individuals have made to the sports journalism landscape. 

In addition to honouring its members, the President, Mr Isaiah Benjamin said SWAN will present awards to the most outstanding Governors across the geopolitical zones, recognising their efforts in promoting sports development within their regions.

This initiative underscores the critical role that leadership plays in fostering  a culture of sports excellence at both state and national levels.

The celebration will also feature informative paper presentations delivered by the Director General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, and Director General of National Institute for Sports, Comrade Philip Shaibu. These presentations will provide insightful perspective on the future of sports in Nigeria and the importance of sports journalism in shaping public opinion and policy.

"The 60th Anniversary of SWAN is not just a celebration of our past; it is a commitment  to the future of sports journalism," said Mr. Isaiah, President of SWAN. 

"We are excited to honour our members, acknowledge the efforts of devoted Governors, and engaged in meaningful  discussions that will shape the future of sports in Nigeria".

The SWAN invites all members, sports enthusiasts, and the general public to join in this historic celebration as the association looks forward to another 60 years of excellence in sports journalism.

A statement from the Director Information and Public Relations of the Commission, Dr. Mrs Kehinde Ajayi revealed.