SWAN President Hails Igoche Mark’s Basketball Contributions

President of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Isaiah Benjamin, has commended basketball promoter Igoche Mark for his contributions to the development of the sport in Nigeria.

Benjamin gave the commendation on Friday when he led members of SWAN’s National Executive Committee on a courtesy visit to Mark in Abuja.

The SWAN president acknowledged Mark’s investment in basketball, particularly through the Mark D’ Ball Basketball Championship, and said his record in the sport had earned him recognition among stakeholders.

“We want to appreciate the good work you have done in basketball. As partners in progress, we are here to show our commitment and, as watchdogs of the society, we report activities as they unfold in every sporting sector,” Benjamin said.

“We have watched from afar everything you have been doing in your capacity, and we are happy with what you are doing.

“We are also aware that you are aspiring for the NBBF presidency. However, for your efforts and contributions to basketball, you deserve it. We don’t do endorsements, but we tell people those who are fit for leadership.”

Benjamin urged basketball stakeholders to look beyond personal interests and sentiments when choosing leaders, stressing the importance of proven records in sports administration.

He said leaders with demonstrable contributions to the development of basketball should be given consideration in the running of the sport.

Responding, Mark thanked the SWAN leadership for the visit and acknowledged the association’s role in promoting sports development through its coverage of sporting activities.

He urged sports journalists to remain objective and provide constructive criticism where necessary.

“I thank you all for this courtesy visit, and I must say, SWAN plays a vital role in sports development in Nigeria because you are the mouthpiece of sports through your coverage,” Mark said.

“I want to urge you to always report the truth and tell us what we are not doing right so that we can have meaningful development.”

Mark also called for closer collaboration between SWAN and the Mark D’ Ball initiative, assuring the association that it would be involved in the organisation’s forthcoming programmes.

Also speaking, SWAN Secretary-General Ambassador Ikenna Okonkwo commended the Mark D’ Ball Basketball Championship, saying the initiative had contributed to the growth and development of basketball in Nigeria.