By Femi Atolagbe
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The President, Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Mr Honour Sirawoo has commended the founding fathers of the association, saying their efforts have continued to propel sports journalism to great heights in the country and beyond.
This is just as he says his administration has continued to seek partnership and cooperation within and outside the country as part of measures to strengthen and reposition the association.
He specifically commended members of the association for their industry, commitment and passion towards the growth and development of sports in Nigeria.
According to him, “despite the obvious challenges, sports journalists in Nigeria have sacrificed their lives and time in the course of duty, even though we remain largely uncelebrated.”
Sirawoo explained that under his watch, the association has made giant strides and has continued to explore new frontiers to give members the respect and reward they deserve.
“We have been able to earn respect for the association. Our members are now better viewed and regarded following our registration and engagement with relevant stakeholders.
“We were also able to get our members into sports federations; these, some of our state chapters have replicated securing places in sporting associations, just as we played a prominent role during the recently held national sports festival in Abuja.
“Am glad to inform our members that we now have a comprehensive data base and are up to date in our affliation with the AIPS ,we have also been able to get a functional secretariat”, he stressed.
The SWAN President called on sports journalists not to rest on their oars but continue to push the frontiers of the noble profession, while insisting that SWAN is a major stakeholder in sports developnent.
He specifically mentioned the qualification of Super Eagles and Falcons for the Nations and World Cups respectively, as well as Nigeria’s performances in age grade athletics competitions, amongst other sporting achievements as reward for constructive criticisms from members.
“Our founding fathers have bequeathed to us a great association, it is our responsibility to nurture and water it to the promise land. We are resolute in this regard and we will continue to serve as the watchdog of the sports sector.
“I appeal to our members to continue to toe the path of honour and professionalism. Only in doing these can we retain our respect, medium and platforms within and outside the shores of Nigeria,” he stressed.
While thanking those that have contributed to the success story of the administration, he reiterated SWAN’s readiness to partner stakeholders with genuine interest in sports promotion and development.