By silvernews
Nigeria’s Pillar of Sports, Chief Donatus Agu-Ejidike, JP, has congratulated the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) on the successful celebration of its 60th anniversary, describing the milestone as a remarkable testament to professionalism, resilience, and patriotic contribution to national sports development.
The sports philanthropist, who spoke with journalists during the anniversary award ceremony held at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, on Friday evening, commended the association’s leadership and members for organizing a befitting event that honoured outstanding contributors to Nigerian sports.
“SWAN Has Remained the Conscience of Nigerian Sports”
Chief Agu-Ejidike praised SWAN for its consistency and commitment over the decades, noting that the association has remained steadfast in championing integrity, excellence, and accountability within the nation’s sports sector.
“The success of SWAN at 60 is not just about the passage of time, but the story of vision, courage, and consistency,” he said.
“You have stayed true to your calling as the conscience of Nigerian sports — interrogating policies, amplifying excellence, and ensuring that the right voices are heard in our nation’s sporting discourse.”
He lauded the recognition accorded to deserving stakeholders, including state governors, sports administrators, coaches, athletes (active and retired), and veteran journalists, describing it as a powerful motivation for greater achievements.
“By celebrating excellence, you have rekindled the spirit of service and patriotism among sports stakeholders. You have shown that reward for good work remains one of the strongest incentives for national progress,” he added.
Calls for Accountability and Renewed Patriotism
Agu-Ejidike, who also serves as Patron of the Nigerian Football Supporters Club, urged SWAN to sustain its watchdog role in demanding transparency and good governance from sports administrators nationwide.
“Our sports need voices of truth and integrity now more than ever. SWAN must continue to ask the hard questions, spotlight the gaps, and drive conversations that lead to real reforms. That is the noblest duty of journalism in nation-building,” he emphasized.
He called on journalists to remain courageous and objective, stressing that the future of Nigerian sports depends on truth-driven reporting, ethical leadership, and a shared commitment to national development.
Reaffirms Support for SWAN and Sports Growth
Reaffirming his continued support for SWAN, Chief Agu-Ejidike highlighted his previous contributions to the association — including the donation of a Toyota Hummer Bus, and the provision of conference materials — as part of his ongoing efforts to promote the welfare of sports journalists and reposition Nigerian sports for global competitiveness.
He also called for stronger collaboration between SWAN, sports federations, corporate organizations, and government agencies to unlock the economic and social potential of sports as a national asset.
“As we celebrate this diamond milestone, let us look beyond nostalgia,” he said.
“Let us work towards a golden era where Nigerian sports will be managed with accountability, innovation, and unity of purpose. Together, we can make sports a true vehicle of peace, empowerment, and national pride.”
