The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has inaugurated the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for its forthcoming Diamond Jubilee Celebration, marking 60 years of excellence in sports journalism.
The inauguration ceremony, held at the Association’s national secretariat in Abuja, formally kick-started preparations for the landmark event scheduled for October 30 and 31, 2025 in the Federal Capital Territory.
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SWAN President, Mr. Isaiah Benjamin, who performed the inauguration, charged committee members to approach the task with dedication and unity of purpose. He emphasised that the success of the Jubilee largely depends on the LOC, assuring them of full support from the national secretariat.
> “The LOC carries the bigger responsibility in this Diamond Jubilee. Your selection is based on your track record, ability to perform, and proven capacity to deliver. Be assured, your efforts will be handsomely rewarded and remembered for generations,” Benjamin said.
In his acceptance speech, Mr. Ben Ogbemudia, Editor with New National Star and Chairman of the LOC, expressed gratitude for the confidence reposed in the committee. He pledged that the team would work tirelessly to deliver a memorable anniversary.
> “We understand the gravity of this task—if we fail, we fail Nigerians, we fail the sports sector, and we fail ourselves. But by God’s grace, we will not fail,” Ogbemudia assured.
The LOC also features prominent names including veteran broadcaster Ms. Anietie Patrick as Secretary, On-Air Personality Sylvanus Ofekun, Arise News Assistant News Director Ferdinand Duruoha, online publisher Niyi Busari, media strategist Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi, Radio Nigeria’s Ndubueze Chidoka, FCT SWAN Chairman Kelechi Onwudiwe, and Democracy Radio’s Chukwunonso Arinzechi.
Meanwhile, SWAN has activated Article 19 of its statutes to set up a Special Awards Committee headed by veteran sports journalist Mr. Abdulgafar Oladimeji. The seven-member panel, with former SWAN Vice President (South-east) Ms. Chigozie Chukwuleta as Secretary, is tasked with screening and selecting deserving awardees for the Diamond Jubilee. Other members include Mr. Jibo Zakari, Mr. Eche Amos, Mr. Kehinde Osagiede, and Mr. Victor Okoye.
The SWAN @60 Diamond Jubilee will celebrate the Association’s legacy, honour past heroes, and project its vision for the future of sports journalism in Nigeria and beyond.
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