SWAN @60: Organising, Special Awards Committees Launch Ahead Of Anniversary Celebration

The national leadership of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has officially inaugurated the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the upcoming SWAN @60 Diamond Jubilee Celebration. This event marks the commencement of activities celebrating six decades of excellence in sports journalism in Nigeria.

The inauguration took place at the Association’s national secretariat in Abuja yesterday, with SWAN President Mr. Isaiah Benjamin urging committee members to fulfil their mandate with dedication and unity.

He stressed that the success of the Diamond Jubilee rests significantly on the LOC’s shoulders, promising maximum support from the national secretariat.

“The LOC bears a substantial responsibility for this Diamond Jubilee. The National Secretariat will provide the necessary logistics, mobility, and access to ensure your work proceeds smoothly. Your selection was based on your proven track record and capacity to deliver.

Rest assured, your efforts will be rewarded and remembered for generations,” he stated.

Mr. Benjamin also announced that the Secretariat, along with the Main Organising Committee (MOC), has initiated stakeholder engagements and courtesy visits, encouraging the LOC to begin its work promptly.

In his acceptance speech, LOC Chairman Mr. Ben Ogbemudia, a Sports and Politics Editor with the New National Star, expressed gratitude for the trust placed in the committee and pledged full commitment to delivering a memorable 60th anniversary celebration.

“Seeing the calibre of people in this committee gives me confidence; even if I falter, they will push me forward. We understand the gravity of this task—failure means failure for Nigerians, the sports sector, and ourselves. By God’s grace, we will not fail,” he assured.

The committee also includes broadcaster Ms. Anietie Patrick as Secretary, alongside members such as On Air Personality Sylvanus Ofekun, assistant news director with Arise News, Ferdinand Duruoha, sports writing expert Niyi Busari, and media strategist Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi, among others.

Additionally, SWAN has activated Article 19 of its statutes to establish a Special Awards Committee, led by sports writing expert and former SWAN Secretary in Kano State, Mr. Abdulgafar Oladimeji. This seven-member committee, including former SWAN Vice President Ms. Chigozie Chukwuleta as Secretary, is tasked with identifying deserving awardees for the 60th anniversary.

The SWAN @60 Diamond Jubilee aims to celebrate the Association’s legacy, honour its past heroes, and envision its future. The two-day event is scheduled for October 30 and 31, 2025, in Abuja.