SWAN at 60: Makanjuola Nureni The Unsung Heroes Behind Nigeria’s Sports Success

SWAN at 60: Makanjuola Nureni The Unsung Heroes Behind Nigeria’s Sports Success

By Niyi Busari 

The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has honoured Abuja-based football administrator and philanthropist, Makanjuola Nureni, with its Distinguished Service Award in recognition of his exceptional contributions to sports development and sustained support for sports journalism in Nigeria, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The awards ceremony took place in Abuja as part of activities marking SWAN’s Diamond Jubilee, celebrating 60 years of promoting excellence and professionalism in sports reporting across the country.

Other notable recipients included Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State, Governor Caleb Muftwang of Plateau State, and Governor Monday Okpebolo of Edo State. Also honoured were Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Shehu Dikko, NSC Director-General Bukola Olopade, and former Minister of Sports, Sunday Dare, who now serves as Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Media and Publicity.

Nureni, founder of Water FC Academy, was recognised for his long-standing commitment to nurturing young talents and supporting grassroots football development. Over the years, his academy has produced several players who have represented Nigeria at various national levels and secured professional contracts abroad.

Expressing gratitude after receiving the award, MK described the honour as a major source of encouragement for continued investment in youth sports.

“I feel happy and fulfilled because we have been doing this for decades, and many times our efforts went unnoticed. I thank SWAN for recognizing people like us,” he said.

“This award gives me the motivation to do more. It’s an inspiration to me, my supporters, and everyone committed to developing sports in Nigeria.”

Muala also praised SWAN for its consistent role in promoting excellence within the sports community and urged the association to remain steadfast in celebrating individuals who contribute to the sector’s growth.

The event drew prominent figures from the sports, media, and government sectors, underscoring SWAN’s enduring influence in advancing sports journalism and advocacy in Nigeria.

Widely known as Mualá, Makanjuola Nureni’s recognition further cements his reputation as one of Nigeria’s foremost private contributors to grassroots football and youth empowerment.