SWAN Urges Fubara To Restructure State Sports Clubs, Appoint Sports Commissioner

The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Rivers State chapter, has urged Governor Siminalayi Fubara to overhaul the management of government-owned sports clubs and appoint a substantive leadership for the State Ministry of Sports to revitalise sports development in the state.

The association said the current management teams of Rivers United, Rivers Angels and Rivers Hoopers have not delivered results commensurate with the level of government investment in the clubs.

Speaking at the association’s July 2026 monthly general meeting in Port Harcourt, Rivers SWAN Chairman Cyril Dum-Wite said a comprehensive restructuring was necessary to reposition the clubs ahead of the new football season and restore the state’s reputation as a leading sporting destination.

He also called on the governor to appoint a substantive commissioner or new leadership for the Ministry of Sports, noting that the ministry is currently without a commissioner.

According to Dum-Wite, the existing administrative structure no longer reflects modern sports management practices and requires urgent reform.

“Under the present leadership of the ministry, sports are gradually declining, and as major stakeholders, we cannot allow the situation to deteriorate further,” he said.

“The current management teams of the clubs may no longer be in tune with contemporary sports administration. There is an urgent need to reorganise the structure and appoint individuals with proven experience and pedigree in sports administration to manage the affairs of these clubs.”

Despite the criticism, Dum-Wite commended Governor Fubara for his continued support for sports development, particularly the ongoing comprehensive renovation of the Yakubu Gowon Stadium, describing the project as a major boost for sporting activities in Rivers State.

He also praised the governor for consistently approving funds to enable athletes to participate in national competitions and sports festivals.

“The governor has consistently approved and released funds for athletes to compete at various sporting events. This clearly demonstrates his commitment to sports development,” Dum-Wite said.

“He has also received successful athletes and rewarded them with cash gifts, which has further motivated sportsmen and women in the state.”

The SWAN chairman further appealed to Governor Fubara to support the association by constructing a permanent SWAN secretariat in Rivers State, suggesting that the facility be named after the governor as part of his sporting legacy.