President Ahmed Bola Tinubu's unprecedented allocation of 12 billion naira towards Nigeria's participation in the 2024 Olympics and Paralympics in Paris was applauded by the FCT SWAN congress. This investment was described as a historic move that underscores the federal government's commitment to sports development in the country.
However, the congress did not shy away from expressing disappointment over Team Nigeria's underwhelming performance on the international stage. In alignment with the stance of the national SWAN body, the FCT Chapter denounced the blame games and scapegoating that followed the disappointing results.
The congress called on Sports Minister Senator John Owan Enoh to take responsibility for these outcomes and to focus on finding effective solutions rather than engaging in divisive tactics with third parties. The minister was also urged to engage directly with FCT SWAN as a unified entity rather than interacting with individuals or factions within the chapter.
The FCT Chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) held its inaugural congress at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abuja. The congress culminated in the adoption of several important resolutions aimed at enhancing sports journalism and sports development in the FCT and beyond.
During the congress, members of FCT SWAN commended the new executive leadership under Chairman Kelechi Onwudiwe for its commitment to transparency and inclusivity. The open-door policy of the new administration was praised, and members assured their continued support and partnership with the association in its future endeavors.
The congress also acknowledged and expressed gratitude for the national SWAN body's efforts in resolving the crisis that had previously plagued the FCT Chapter, paving the way for the emergence of the current leadership. This intervention was seen as crucial in restoring stability and fostering unity within the chapter.
In a notable highlight, FCT SWAN welcomed the return of former Super Eagles coach Samson Siasia, who recently completed a five-year ban imposed by FIFA. The association encouraged Siasia to utilize his wealth of coaching experience to contribute to the development of football in Nigeria.
Looking ahead to the upcoming Paralympic Games, FCT SWAN encouraged the athletes and officials of the Paralympic Committee of Nigeria to strive for excellence and to make Nigeria proud through their performances.
The congress also addressed local sports initiatives, extending best wishes to the FCT Sports Council for successful participation in the forthcoming National Youth Games. The FCT SWAN called on the current FCT administration to ensure thorough preparations for the event, including making adequate provisions for all participants and facilitating effective media coverage by sports journalists.
In its interactions with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), FCT SWAN lauded the federation's collaboration with the media and its commitment to football development. However, the congress urged the NFF President Ibrahim Gusau-led board to promptly resolve the coaching futures of the Super Eagles and Super Falcons to ensure the country's success in upcoming competitions.
The congress reiterated its support for the NFF as it strategizes for a successful Super Eagles qualification campaign for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, as well as the upcoming Under-20 and Under-17 FIFA Women's World Cup campaigns in Colombia and the Dominican Republic, respectively.
Addressing internal challenges, FCT SWAN expressed concern over the actions of certain handlers and saboteurs who collaborate with government agencies and parastatals to undermine the association. The congress called on corporate bodies, sports federations, the NFF, and the Sports Ministry to engage with the new FCT SWAN executive as a unified entity rather than dealing with individuals or factions.
Furthermore, the congress resolved to engage with the defunct Bunmi Haruna-led faction to ensure the seamless return of all SWAN properties in their possession, including the association’s bank account. This move is seen as critical in re-establishing the chapter’s operational integrity and unity.
In a final note, FCT SWAN extended its heartfelt condolences to the families of National President Isaiah Benjamin, Honourable Ekene Adams Abubakar, Albert Akota, and Lawrence Nwachukwu for their recent losses.
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