SWAN Tasks States on Grassroots Sports, Membership Drive at National Convention

From Paul Orude Bauchi

The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has urged State Governments across the country to prioritize grassroots sports development as a tool for youth empowerment, national unity and tackling insecurity.

This was part of the resolutions contained in a communiqué issued at the end of SWAN’s National Convention held on September 4, 2025, at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba, Delta State, shortly after the conclusion of the 9th National Youth Games (NYG).

SWAN commended the National Sports Commission for sustaining the organisation of the annual Games but charged it to intensify efforts in tackling age-cheating to preserve the essence of grassroots competitions.

While applauding Delta State Government for successfully hosting the 9th edition of the Games, the association urged future host states to build on the gains by improving facilities and logistics. It also congratulated Lagos State for emerging overall winners of the NYG for the first time in history.

The communiqué, however, expressed displeasure at the lack of deliberate investment in human capital development through sports by some states, citing the non-participation of Ebonyi, Gombe, Zamfara, Borno and Kebbi in the Games. It stressed that sports remain a veritable avenue for youth engagement, curbing insecurity and enhancing citizens’ well-being.

In the same vein, SWAN commended Edo State Sports Commission Chairman, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, Ogun State Sports Commissioner, Hon. Wasiu Isiaka, and the President of Nigeria Volleyball Federation, Engr. Musa Nimrod, for their bold initiatives and consistent engagement with the media in advancing sports development.

Looking ahead, the body wished Enugu State Government success as host of the 2026 National Sports Festival but emphasised the need for timely renovation of facilities. It also called for the inclusion of SWAN Chapter Chairmen in Local Organising Committees as was the practice in past editions.

The association further urged state governments to grant sports journalists easier access to cover sporting activities in their domains, while calling on its members to maintain professionalism, renew their registrations promptly, and ensure inclusion of women in the coverage of national events.

SWAN also used the opportunity to announce preparations for its 60th Diamond Jubilee Anniversary in October 2025, calling for sponsorship and partnerships to make the celebration memorable.

The communiqué was jointly signed by Chimezie Anaso (Chairman, Anambra State Chapter), Abel Leonard (Secretary, Nasarawa State Chapter), Johnson Bassey (Akwa Ibom State Chapter), and Ikenna Okonkwo (SWAN Secretary-General).