2024 National Sports Festival: SWAN Demands Improved Athlete Welfare to Drive FCT’s Medal Haul

2024 National Sports Festival: SWAN Demands Improved Athlete Welfare to Drive FCT’s Medal Haul 

..... Condoles with Secretariat Over Passing of Staff Bosede Momoh

The Federal Capital Territory chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (FCT SWAN) has called for improved welfare for athletes and officials as a critical factor in driving FCT’s performance and medal haul at the upcoming Gateway 2024 National Sports Festival next month.

During a courtesy visit to top officials of the Youth and Sports Development Secretariat, FCT SWAN Chairman, Mr. Kelechi Onwudiwe, emphasized the need for better support systems to help FCT athletes compete more effectively and secure more podium finishes at the national event, plus surpassing their ninth place finish last time out.

The visit, held at the Secretariat’s office within the Arts and Culture building, Area 10, Garki, Abuja, was an opportunity to congratulate the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Nancy Nathan, and the newly appointed Mandate Secretary, Alhaji Ibrahim Geidam, on their new roles while strengthening ties for future collaboration in advancing sports in the capital.

“We are committed more than ever to supporting your vision and amplifying the achievements in FCT sports,” Onwudiwe stated. “However, we strongly appeal for enhanced welfare for our athletes and officials to ensure they can compete at their best at the National Sports Festival.”

In response, Mandate Secretary Alhaji Ibrahim Geidam expressed his gratitude for the visit, highlighting it as only the second engagement from a sports organization since his appointment.

He affirmed his commitment to a closer collaboration with SWAN to fulfill the sports development vision of FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike.

“This is an important partnership. We look forward to working hand-in-hand with SWAN to achieve the Honourable Minister’s sports development goals,” Geidam stated, following his transfer from the Agriculture Secretariat.

Mrs. Nancy Nathan, the Permanent Secretary, also took the opportunity to brief the delegation on key infrastructure projects approved by the FCT Minister, including the upgrade of the Area 3 Sports Complex, rehabilitation of the Old Parade Ground, and plans for new multi-purpose sporting facilities across the FCT’s area councils.

“We understand the important role the media plays in sports promotion. SWAN will be carried along at every step,” Nathan affirmed. 

“As we prepare for the National Sports Festival, we will ensure your members have full access to cover and promote our athletes.”

In a solemn moment during the visit, FCT SWAN extended condolences to the Secretariat over the passing of Mrs. Bosede Momoh, a dedicated staff member and respected football referee. 

A minute of silence was observed in her honor, and the delegation paid tribute to her significant contributions to grassroots and women’s football in the FCT.

“We are deeply saddened by her loss,” Onwudiwe said. “Her legacy in FCT sports will always be remembered.”

The FCT SWAN delegation also included Vice Chairman Victor Okoye (NAN), Secretary Samuel Ahmadu, Financial Secretary Niyi Busari, Welfare Officer Joan Iwuchukwu, and Assistant Financial Secretary Friday Joshua.