By Fisayo Akinduro,  Osogbo

|

Media organizations in Osun State have pledged their full support to Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Osun State chapter in promoting sports sector in the state.
This was the summary of discussions during the familiarisation tour by leadership of Osun chapter of SWAN to various media houses in Osun State.
Led by its Chairman Timothy Agbor, SWAN, who spoke through the Secretary, Tajudeen Amodu appreciated professionalism of all sport reporters and presenters in Osun and solicited for the management’s support in the areas of registration of sports reporters/presenters with SWAN, participation in SWAN’s activities, reportage of local sports contents, coverage of SWAN’s Monthly Stakeholders’ Platform as well as the giving ideas on the proposed Osun Sports Summit aimed at setting agenda for the state government.
In their responses, Chairman, Rave FM, Osogbo, Mr. Femi Adefila who went on the memory lane to narrate his involvement in SWAN activities during his days as an active journalist lauded continuous efforts of Osun SWAN to promote sports and urged them to interface with the government and put those at the helms of affairs on their toes.
“Your association has been up and doing and it is important for all sports presenters and reporters to activate their membership as and when due. We are very happy with what you’re doing to promote sports which is one of the ways to stem the tide of insecurity and youth restiveness in our society. We will continue to be a partner in progress with your association to move Osun Sports forward,” stated Mr. Adefila.
Also speaking, Coordinator, Broadcast Journalists, Osogbo, Mr. Folorunsho Adeniyi advised SWAN to build on the foundation laid by past leaders to take sports to a greater height in the state through their unrelented services.
In his remarks, General Manager, NTA Osogbo, Mr. Femi Babalola, represented by the Head, News and Current Affairs Department, Mr. Segun Lawole frowned at the poor funding of sports in Osun and urged SWAN to use their pens in reporting the true situation of things and proffer solutions to the teething challenges in the sector.
Similarly, Deputy Editor, Osun Defender, Mr. Ismaeel Uthman lauded accurate reportage of sporting events and assured that Osun Defender will continue to promote local sports and be part of SWAN programmes.
“I want to commend the good job you are doing in promoting our local sporting activities. If we actually want to get it right, we have to start from the grassroot and this should begin with the promotion of our local talents. Our publication focuses on local content, sports inclusive, and we shall continue to join hands with you to expose our talented athletes to the world,” stated Mr. Uthman.
Earlier, the leadership of SWAN had visited Uniq FM/Freedom Television and Gold FM, Ilesha where General Managers of the stations, Mr. Jare Ayo Martins and Mr. Adedamola Tinubu respectively promised their unalloyed support to Osun SWAN.
The familiarisation tour continues next week to other media houses and personalities in the state.
Also on the entourage of Osun SWAN were the Vice Chairman, Seun Omolola, Treasurer, Seyi Akanni, Assistant Secretary, Segun Fadoro and a member, Ayobami Agboola.