NFF, SWAN Pledge To Strengthen Partnership

The national executive committee of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria on Tuesday paid a courtesy call on the President of Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau at the NFF Secretariat, Abuja, during which the NFF supremo underscored the importance of journalists as critical stakeholders in Nigeria Football.

During the meeting, President Gusau emphasized the importance of open communication and cooperation, noting that unity is crucial for addressing the challenges subsisting in the Nigeria game.

“I recognize and appreciate the high importance of media professionals towards the actualization of our mission and vision to take Nigeria football to new heights of excellence. There is the need for us to collaborate and synergize better, in order for us to be able to implement, seamlessly, strategies that will uplift Nigeria football in the interest of all stakeholders.”

In his response, Mr. Isaiah Benjamin, President of SWAN, expressed appreciation for the opportunity to engage with the NFF leadership. He reaffirmed SWAN’s commitment to ensuring comprehensive media coverage of the NFF’s programmes and initiatives. “The NFF, as the supreme governing body of football in Nigeria, has the biggest responsibility for the growth and success of the game in Nigeria. Through our collaboration, SWAN will strive to communicate the activities and accomplishments of the NFF to the broader public, aligning our efforts with the priorities of the Federation.”

Also present at the occasion were Mr. Ayodeji Ogunsakin (Vice President, South-West); Mr. Olayinka Owolewa (Vice President, North-Central); Alh. Lurwanu Idris Malikawa Garu (Ex-Officio); Mr. Biodun Ogundipe (Ex-Officio); Ikenna Okonkwo (Secretary General); Mr. Femi Amusan; Olufemi Ayorinde (Treasurer); Mrs. Ijeoma Peter Nwante (Financial Secretary); Mr. Chidoka Ndubueze (former Chairman, FCT SWAN); Mr. Kelechi Onwudiwe (Current FCT SWAN Chairman); Mr. Samuel Ahmadu (FCT SWAN Secretary) and; Mr. Jacob Okpani (Kaduna SWAN Secretary)

In conclusion, both the NFF and SWAN have committed to fostering a robust partnership that leverages their respective strengths to advance the development of football in Nigeria. This collaboration aims to enhance the sport’s profile and establish its importance within the national conversation.