SWAN At 60: Sports Body Urges Super Eagles To Go For Glory Against Gabon, Others, Reinstates Deputy President

SWAN At 60: Sports Body Urges Super Eagles To Go For Glory Against Gabon, Others, Reinstates Deputy President

By Admin

The Full Council Meeting of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) held at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja was a resounding success, reports BSNSports.com.ng.

Led by National President Mr. Isaiah Benjamin. Delegates from all State Chapters across Nigeria convened for a decisive session. Following vigorous discussions, the Full Council made several impactful resolutions.

Commendation and Appreciation: SWAN proudly recognised the Association's thriving, dynamic nature, showcasing resilience and an unwavering focus on enhancing its professional framework.

The Full Council passed a unanimous vote of confidence in the current National Executive Council (NEC) led by Mr. Isaiah Benjamin, commending its visionary leadership, transparency, and steadfast dedication to bolstering SWAN’s professional relevance and stability.

Delegates acknowledged the NEC’s relentless efforts to fortify unity, visibility, and engagement with key stakeholders both within and beyond the sporting community.

SWAN–NUJ Relationship:The Full Council asserted the strength of the positive relationship between SWAN’s national leadership and the National Union of Journalists (NUJ).

SWAN unequivocally stated that there are no issues with NUJ and urged State Chapters and NUJ Council leadership to replicate the spirit of cooperation demonstrated at the national level. Delegates expressed confidence that this renewed partnership would enhance journalistic unity and drive a coordinated pursuit of professional excellence across the media sector.

Reinstatement of Deputy President: The Full Council formally accepted the sincere apology of Mr. Bonny Young, who was previously suspended during the Full Council meeting in May 2024 in Kano.

Following thorough consideration, his suspension has been lifted, and he is reinstated to his role as Deputy President with all rights and privileges fully restored.

2026 Membership Registration: The Full Council announced the launch of the 2026 membership registration beginning in November 2025, mandating that all processes and submissions be managed through the respective State Chapters.

SWAN @ 60 Anniversary: The Full Council congratulated the Association on the momentous occasion of its 60th Anniversary, expressing profound gratitude to Almighty God, sports administrators, stakeholders, and corporate partners for their invaluable contributions to the success of the commemorative events held on October 30 and 31, 2025, in Abuja.

Tribute to Founding Fathers and Veterans: The Council paid homage to the founding fathers and veterans of SWAN, acknowledging their vision, dedication, and enduring contributions to the growth and legacy of the Association.

They also celebrated all awardees recognized during the 60th Anniversary celebrations for their exemplary achievements.

Support for Nigeria’s Sports Development: SWAN extended hearty congratulations to National Sports Commission leadership, spearheaded by Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko and Director-General Hon. Bukola Olopade, for their proactive and visionary approach to sports development in Nigeria over the past year.

SWAN commits to fostering a robust partnership aimed at elevating the nation’s sporting landscape.

Focus on Nigeria Football and the 2026 World Cup: SWAN unequivocally acknowledged the efforts being made to secure Nigeria’s qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and urged all stakeholders—including the Super Eagles and the Nigeria Football Federation—to maintain sharp focus and determination in achieving this critical goal.

Engagement with National Sports Federations: In response to the recent National Sports Federations' Elections, SWAN called upon all sports federations to collaborate effectively with the National Sports Commission in implementing strategies that will allow various sports to thrive in the years ahead.

SWAN commended federations such as the Nigeria Wrestling Federation and Nigeria Volleyball Federation for their prompt actions post-elections and urged others to remain proactive in talent development and support.

Advocacy for Funding and Improved Budget Systems: SWAN recognized the Federal Government, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for increasing the budgetary allocation to sports in the 2025 budget.

Sports journalists demand a continued commitment to securing additional funding, viewing it as a crucial strategy for combating social vices and reducing insecurity across Nigeria. This decisive dialogue exemplifies SWAN’s commitment to growth, collaboration, and transformative change within the sports journalism community and beyond.