The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ebonyi State chapter, Comrade Samson Chinedu Nwafor, has called on members of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) to sustain their commitment to sports journalism, highlighting its crucial role in fostering sports development within the state.
Nwafor made this appeal during a courtesy visit from the leadership of SWAN, led by its chairman, Comrade Ndubuisi Nwogha, in company of the 2025 SWAN Week Planning Committee. The meeting underscored the importance of sports journalism in promoting local talents and enhancing the visibility of sporting events in Ebonyi.
Commending SWAN for its renewed dedication to sports coverage, Nwafor noted the significant improvements in sports journalism in the state. He emphasized the necessity for sports journalists to remain steadfast in their efforts, stating, "I sincerely appreciate your visit. The day the new SWAN leadership emerged, I emphasized that SWAN is an integral part of NUJ. In a state like ours, where the governor has invested heavily in sports, our duty as a union is to support such initiatives by ensuring adequate media coverage of sporting events."
Nwafor encouraged sports journalists to utilize their platforms to amplify sports activities, asserting that increased visibility would not only complement the government's sports agenda but also promote local sporting talents. "It is good that we now have a well-constituted SWAN leadership, unlike before. We must ensure continuous media presence in sports reporting so that the government and stakeholders appreciate our contributions. If we maintain this momentum, it will help build a stronger sports culture in Ebonyi," he added.
Despite acknowledging the positive strides made by SWAN, Nwafor pointed out the challenge of securing sponsorship, noting that the lack of major football clubs or industries in Ebonyi has hindered the attraction of corporate support for sporting activities. "If Ebonyi had a big club or industries, you would see people coming to partner with SWAN. But that shouldn't discourage us. The work we do today will lay the foundation for future support," he remarked.
In his remarks, SWAN Chairman, Comrade Ndubuisi Nwogha, expressed gratitude for Nwafor’s encouragement and reiterated the association’s commitment to aligning with the government's People’s Charter of Needs by promoting sports development through journalism.
Additionally, the Chairman of the 2025 SWAN Week Planning Committee, Mr. Israel Ekene Mbam, described the upcoming event as a significant step towards revitalizing sports journalism in the state. "SWAN is about selfless service. For a long time, we haven't had a SWAN Week in Ebonyi. But with the new leadership, we decided to revive it. The event, scheduled for Monday, March 31, to Sunday, April 6, 2025, will feature various activities, including cricket matches, a sports writing competition for schools, a road walk, and more," Mbam stated.
The visit further solidified the collaboration between NUJ and SWAN in advancing the growth of sports through effective media coverage, with both parties pledging to continue their synergy for the betterment of the profession and the state.
