The National Sports Commission (NSC) has applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his renewed drive toward sports development and youth engagement across Nigeria.
The commendation was made on Monday, October 27, 2025, by the Chairman of the NSC, Shehu Dikko, while declaring open the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) Diamond Jubilee celebration at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.
Dikko lauded the President for “redefining and solidifying sports activities that engage idle youths and position Nigeria as a model in sports development.”
He also praised SWAN’s leadership for uniting sports journalists nationwide to mark six decades of impactful sports journalism.
He urged journalists to be responsible in their reportage, saying, “If we fail as a commission in the sports world, it automatically means that SWAN has also failed.” Dikko warned against sensational stories that could harm the image of Nigeria’s sports industry, advising reporters to verify facts before publication.
In a goodwill message delivered by Dr Ekaette Akpabio, wife of the Senate President, she emphasised the need to empower the girl child through sports.
Represented by Dr (Mrs) Ekong Sampson, she said, “We must promote the inclusion of girls in all sporting programmes so they can compete globally like their male counterparts.”
Also speaking, the Director-General of the National Institute for Sports, Philip Shaibu, described SWAN as “the voice of Nigerian sports” over the past six decades. “Your pens and microphones have immortalised our heroes, amplified our successes, and constructively critiqued our shortcomings,” he said.
Earlier, SWAN President Isaiah Benjamin described the anniversary as a “landmark celebration” of six decades of sports journalism and national development. He revealed that the event would climax with a fundraising dinner to support the construction of SWAN’s long-awaited national secretariat.
The SWAN @60 celebration continues with events designed to honour the association’s legacy and promote collaboration for the growth of Nigeria’s sports sector.
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