SWAN Issues Resolutions at National Convention, Sets Agenda for Grassroots Sports Development

The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has released a 10-point communiqué at the end of its National Convention held on September 4, 2025, with representatives drawn from state chapters across the federation.

In its resolutions, SWAN expressed delight at the sustained organisation of the National Youth Games (NYG) by the National Sports Commission, but called for stricter measures to curb age-cheating in order to preserve the integrity and developmental purpose of the Games.

The Association commended Delta State for successfully hosting the just-concluded edition, while congratulating Lagos State for emerging overall winners for the first time. It, however, expressed concern over the lack of deliberate investment in youth and sports development by some state governments, citing low or no participation by Ebonyi, Gombe, Zamfara, Borno, and Kebbi States at the 9th NYG. SWAN stressed that sports remain a critical tool for youth empowerment, curbing insecurity, and improving the well-being of citizens.

The communiqué further commended Honourable Amadin Desmond Enabulele, Chairman of Edo State Sports Commission; Honourable Wasiu Isiaka, Ogun State Commissioner for Sports; and Engr. Musa Nimrod, President of the Nigeria Volleyball Federation, for bold initiatives and sustained media relations in advancing sports development.

Looking ahead, SWAN wished the Enugu State Government success as host of the 2026 National Sports Festival, urging timely upgrade of facilities and the inclusion of SWAN’s chapter chairman in the Local Organising Committee, in line with past practice.

Other resolutions include:

Calls on state governments to grant sports journalists easier access to cover events.

Appeal to SWAN members to update registration/renewals for unhindered participation in competitions.

Emphasis on professionalism in reportage.

A strong push for the inclusion of women in the coverage of national competitions.

Mobilisation ahead of SWAN’s 60th Diamond Jubilee Anniversary in October 2025, with a call for sponsorship and partnership support.

The communiqué was signed by Chimezie Anaso, Chairman of SWAN Anambra State Chapter and Chairman of the Communiqué Drafting Committee; Abel Leonard, Secretary of SWAN Nasarawa State Chapter; and Johnson Bassey, a member from Akwa Ibom State.