SWAN to NSC, NFF: Nigerian Sports Journalists Deserve Better Recognition and Support

SWAN to NSC, NFF: Nigerian Sports Journalists Deserve Better Recognition and Support

By Admin 

The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has issued a strong appeal to the National Sports Commission (NSC) and other stakeholders, calling for overdue recognition, improved welfare, and institutional support for sports journalists in Nigeria. The association emphasized the tireless contributions of these journalists to the development of Nigerian sports, often under difficult and unrewarding conditions.

In a statement released Tuesday by SWAN Secretary-General Ambassador Ikenna Okonkwo on behalf of the association’s President, Mr. Isaiah Benjamin, SWAN decried the continued marginalization of sports journalists, describing the situation as “appalling and unacceptable.”

Benjamin pointed out that, unlike in other parts of the world where the media are integral to sports ecosystems, Nigerian sports journalists are frequently sidelined and forced to fund their own coverage of both local and international events.

“The media plays a vital role in every stage of an athlete’s journey — from grassroots to elite levels — yet Nigerian sports journalists are neglected and underappreciated,” Benjamin stated. “They endure harsh conditions, including extreme weather, expensive travel, accommodation costs, and various risks, without institutional support, only to be treated with disdain by the very administrators they help promote.”

Citing the 2024 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco as a recent example, Benjamin revealed that more than 25 Nigerian sports journalists covered the tournament entirely at their own expense. Beyond professional reporting, they also served as passionate supporters of the Super Falcons, helping to amplify the team’s morale and visibility throughout the competition.

“The typical experience of a Nigerian sports journalist is a tale of sacrifice with little to no recognition,” he said. “Despite playing a key role in the success stories of athletes and administrators, journalists are persistently excluded from benefits, planning processes, and official delegations.”

While commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, state governors, and former Nigerian leaders for rewarding athletes and technical staff with national honours, cash gifts, and housing, Benjamin insisted that similar appreciation must be extended to members of the sporting media.

“In other countries, journalists are respected and supported by government bodies and corporate organisations alike. Here in Nigeria, however, sports journalists are treated as mere accessories — called upon in times of crisis but ignored during strategic planning and celebrations.”

He criticized the NSC’s repeated exclusion of SWAN from major national and international events, warning that the trend of institutional neglect could erode the integrity and sustainability of sports coverage in Nigeria.

“Time and again, we hear the excuse of 'no funds' when it comes to media inclusion. Yet, the same administrators find ways to secure their own comfort. Why are journalists always the ones sacrificed?” he asked.

SWAN called on the NSC, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), and other sports federations to embrace inclusive practices that integrate sports journalists into the broader development framework, stressing that media professionals are not just observers but essential stakeholders in Nigeria’s sporting future.