The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has sought the support and partnership of the Chief Executive Officer and Board of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) to ensure a successful celebration of its 60th anniversary.
During a courtesy visit to the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NAN, Mr. Ali M. Ali, the SWAN National Secretary, Mr. Ikenna Okonkwo, commended the agency for its immense contribution to journalism and sports development across the country.
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Okonkwo, who led members of the SWAN @60 Local Organising Committee (LOC), said the visit was part of ongoing engagements with strategic media partners to ensure the success of the association’s diamond jubilee celebration.
“We are here to formally seek the support of the CEO and Board of NAN to make the SWAN @60 celebration a resounding success. For six decades, SWAN has championed sports journalism in Nigeria and has remained committed to promoting the nation’s sporting heroes. We believe NAN’s partnership will add great value to this milestone,” Okonkwo stated.
Responding, NAN’s Managing Director and CEO, Mr. Ali M. Ali, congratulated SWAN on attaining 60 years of impactful service, describing the milestone as “a diamond jubilee worth celebrating.”
“After the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), SWAN remains one of the oldest professional associations in Nigerian journalism. Sixty years is no small feat. Journalists often spend their lives promoting others, so it is only fitting that we celebrate ourselves,” he said.
Mr. Ali lauded sports journalists for their professionalism and versatility, noting that many had distinguished themselves as editors and media leaders beyond the sports beat.
He further emphasized the need for wellness and fitness among journalists, revealing that NAN had established a modern gym to encourage healthy living among its staff.
“Journalists work under immense pressure and often neglect their health. At NAN, we believe a healthy workforce is essential for productivity. I encourage SWAN to keep promoting the culture of wellness and fitness across newsrooms,” he added.
Ali assured the association of the CEO and Board’s full support for its 60th anniversary programmes and commended SWAN Abuja Vice Chairman, Mr. Victor Okoye, for his active leadership and dedication to the association’s goals.
Those present at the visit included National SWAN Financial Secretary, Ijeoma, and members of the SWAN @60 Local Organising Committee (LOC): Ben Ogbemudia (Chairman), Anietie Patrick (Secretary), Ndubueze Chidoka, Kelechi Onwudiwe, and Arinzechi Chukwunonso.
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