The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), South East Zone, Enugu State Chapter, and the National Body wish to express serious concern over the inauguration of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) for the 23rd National Sports Festival (NSF), held today, 18th June 2025, in Enugu, without the inclusion of any SWAN member.
This exclusion is not only unfortunate but wholly unacceptable. As a critical stakeholder in the promotion, organization, and development of sports in Nigeria, SWAN plays an essential role in ensuring effective media coverage, public engagement, and strategic communication—key components in the successful execution of any major sporting event.
Speaking on behalf of the association, the Vice President of SWAN South East Zone, Mr. Ikemefuna Asika, and the Zonal Secretary, Mr. Kennedy Onwunali, stated that the failure to include SWAN members in the LOC undermines the association’s long-standing contributions to sports development and disrespects the crucial role of sports journalism in national sporting affairs.
They therefore called on the National Sports Commission (NSC) and the Enugu State Government to, as a matter of urgency, review the committee’s composition and include representatives of SWAN to ensure a balanced, inclusive, and transparent approach to organizing the 23rd National Sports Festival.
