The Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, has urged journalists in Nigeria to remain factual and avoid sensationalism in their reportage, emphasising that the credibility of the media is vital to national unity and sports development.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) 60th Anniversary and Diamond Jubilee Celebration, held at the VIP Lounge of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, Dikko called on members of the press to verify their reports before publication and resist the temptation to circulate unverified information.
“If we succeed, we succeed together; and if we fail, it is also together. Our doors are always open—but for the success of our country, we must be guided by facts and truth,” he said.
Dikko expressed concern over what he described as the growing spread of misinformation in sports reporting, particularly addressing rumours that funds from FIFA and CAF were recently given to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
“Such rumours, spread without credible sources, are meant to create confusion among the public,” he noted, urging journalists to focus on issues that promote the image of Nigerian sports and inspire patriotism.
The week-long celebration, themed “The Power of Sports Media: Honouring Its Legacy, Shaping the Future,” marks six decades of SWAN’s contribution to sports journalism and national development.
Other dignitaries present at the event included the Director-General of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), Comrade Philip Shaibu, and the Wife of the Senate President, who both commended SWAN for its role in uniting the country through sports coverage.
In his goodwill message, Dikko also called on Nigerians to support and pray for the Super Eagles as they seek qualification for the forthcoming FIFA World Cup, stressing that unity and positive reporting can boost the team’s morale.
The anniversary continues with a series of lectures, award presentations, and interactive sessions highlighting the evolution of sports journalism in Nigeria.
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