Reforms, Renewals, and New Initiatives Dominate FCT SWAN 2025 Congress

Reforms, Renewals, and New Initiatives Dominate FCT SWAN 2025 Congress

By BSN Sports 

The Federal Capital Territory chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has outlined a series of strategic reforms following its Second Congress of 2025, held on Friday, 14 November 2025, at the Old Parade Ground, Area 10, Garki, Abuja, BSNSports.com.ng reports. 

The session was presided over by the Chapter Chairman, Mr. Kelechi Onwudiwe.

During the Congress, members reviewed the state of the association, assessed ongoing initiatives, and adopted resolutions aimed at strengthening membership sustainability, enhancing professional visibility, and improving welfare. The Congress also endorsed a new funding model designed to reposition the chapter for more efficient service delivery.

Key Resolutions

1. 2024 SWAN Week Report

The Congress acknowledged the presentation of the 2024 SWAN Week Report by Chairman Aniete Patrick. It recommended further reconciliation with the Executive Committee (EXCO) ahead of its final adoption at the next Congress.

2. Membership Renewal Drive

Members raised concerns over the low rate of 2025 membership renewals and resolved to intensify collaboration in anticipation of the 2026 renewal campaign. The Congress approved the immediate closure of 2025 renewals and confirmed that the 2026 membership window will open on 1 December 2025.

3. Engagement with National Sports Federations and the National Sports Commission

The Congress resolved to strengthen ties with the National Sports Commission (NSC) and national sports federations, congratulating newly elected leaders and urging them to prioritize impactful service delivery. Members endorsed renewed advocacy for SWAN representation on federation boards and sub-committees.

Additionally, the Congress approved the introduction of a monthly “Hot-Seat Series” beginning in 2026, which will feature discussions with prominent sports administrators and philanthropists.

4. Collaboration with the Nigeria Football Federation

FCT SWAN congratulated the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), led by President Ibrahim Gusau, on the Super Eagles’ progress in the ongoing FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign and the Super Falcons’ qualification for the Morocco 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.

The Congress reaffirmed its commitment to robust coverage of NFF activities and urged the federation to maintain equitable representation for sports writers in national assignments, including the Africa Cup of Nations.

5. Introduction of Monthly Dues

Members approved the introduction of a compulsory monthly due of ₦1,000 for all FCT SWAN members, effective January 2026. The Congress also approved direct deduction from honoraria as an alternative collection method. Mrs. Aderonke Ojo was unanimously appointed to oversee the collection process.

6. Corporate Partnerships

To boost institutional capacity, the Congress authorized courtesy visits and engagement with corporate bodies, sports-friendly organizations, and individuals to secure partnerships and sponsorships for 2026 activities, including the FCT SWAN @ 35 celebration and conference.

7. Ex-Officio Appointment

The Congress ratified the appointment of Mr. Raphael Ekpang as an Ex-Officio member of the FCT SWAN Executive Committee.

8. Appreciation to National SWAN

Members expressed gratitude to the National SWAN for selecting Abuja as the host city for the SWAN @ 60 celebration and for successfully organizing the weeklong event. The Congress also recognized veteran FCT SWAN members for their longstanding contributions to sports journalism.