The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) is still in deep shock over the sudden death of the former Media Officer of the Super Eagles, Ben Alaiya who passed on earlier in the month.
Alaiya, a consummate journalist worked in many media organizations including the Diet, Daily Independent and Sports Day Newspapers before he was appointed as the Media Officer of the Nigerian national team.
SWAN President, Sir Honour Sirawoo in his tribute described Alaiya as a complete gentleman who was equally dedicated to his friends and profession.
Sirawoo recalled the high sense of patriotism and professionalism the late Alaiya brought to the discharge of his duties when he served in the Super Eagles. He noted that he was always making it easy for sports writers to have easy access to the players by promptly scheduling media chats anytime the players were in camp.
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The SWAN President who also regretted that the SWAN family was losing Alaiya barely two months after the demise of the former Chairman of the Edo State chapter Ahmed Aigbona, called on the sports writers to always check their health status from time to time.
Similarly, Sirawoo decried the state of health facilities in the country and charged governments both at the federal and state levels to pay more attention to the health of Nigerians.
He also enjoined SWAN members especially those in Lagos and environ to try and attend the Service of Songs scheduled to take place on Saturday, 23rd October, 2021 as well as his burial slated to take place on 30th of October, 2021 in his home town, Ososo, Akoko Edo LGA, Edo State.
The National Secretariat while wishing that his immediate family will find the fortitude to bear this loss, also prays that such death should not occur again in the Nigerian sports family.
May his gentle soul rest in peace.