Abuja: The Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Ali Muhammad Ali, has pledged strong support for the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) as the association marks its 60th anniversary. Ali made the pledge on Wednesday in Abuja during a courtesy visit by members of the SWAN@60 Local Organising Committee (LOC), led by the association’s Secretary-General, Mr Ikenna Okonkwo.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Ali described the anniversary as a landmark event in the history of sports journalism in Nigeria and a moment deserving of national recognition. Ali congratulated the association on reaching 60 years, noting that a diamond jubilee is a significant achievement. He assured the committee of NAN’s commitment to supporting and promoting the celebration across all its platforms, emphasizing NAN’s role as a key stakeholder in publicizing SWAN’s events and stories.
Ali highlighted NAN’s responsibility to amplify stories that reflect the development of key sectors, including sports, as Nigeria’s primary news content provider. He emphasized the importance of recognizing and celebrating journalists, particularly those in the sports beat, who have dedicated decades to the craft. Ali also stressed NAN’s commitment to professionalism, innovation, and staff welfare, advocating for healthy lifestyles in the newsroom.
Ali further noted NAN’s access to media monitoring tools and international news partnerships, which enable the agency to deliver accurate, credible, and timely news. He highlighted that NAN’s global news exchange agreements ensure a broader perspective in Nigerian journalism.
In his remarks, Okonkwo expressed gratitude to NAN for its enduring support and collaboration with SWAN. He acknowledged NAN as a major stakeholder and media giant in Africa. Okonkwo emphasized the importance of the agency’s support and collaboration with SWAN, particularly during the diamond jubilee celebration, which offers an opportunity to recognize the sacrifices and achievements of sports journalists.
Okonkwo stressed the vital role of the media in the sporting ecosystem, noting that sports thrive on a tripod consisting of athletes, administrators, and the media. He outlined the activities planned for the SWAN@60 celebration, which will be held in Abuja from Oct. 29 to Oct. 31, including lectures, a fitness walk, exhibitions, and a gala night to honor distinguished contributors to sports journalism.
Ben Ogbemudia, Chairman of the LOC, commended NAN for its consistent support for sports journalism. He disclosed that the three-day celebration would attract a wide range of participants, including dignitaries from both the public and private sectors. Ogbemudia mentioned that high-level guests, such as the Governor of Bayelsa, Douye Diri, and other prominent figures, are expected to attend, reflecting the impact and relevance of sports media in Nigeria.
Ogbemudia added that preparations were in top gear to ensure the celebration is memorable and befitting of the occasion.