The Ogun State Commissioner for Sports, Wasiu Isiaka, has commended the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) for its exemplary coverage of the ongoing 9th National Youth Games (NYG) and the recently concluded 22nd National Sports Festival (NSF), hosted in Abeokuta.
Speaking during the SWAN Convention held at the media center of the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba, Delta State, Isiaka lauded the association’s commitment and professionalism, describing their work as “excellent and flawless.”
“The role of sports journalists in the development of sports in Nigeria cannot be overstated,” he noted. “SWAN has been instrumental in promoting our national events and deserves greater recognition and reward for its unwavering commitment.”
Isiaka also used the occasion to highlight Ogun State’s recent strides in sports development under his leadership. With strong support from the state’s governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun,
Outlining key milestones such as revamping of MKO Abiola stadium, hosting of the CAA U-18/U-20 athletic championship, training base for Super Falcons, and home ground for Remo State FC, Isiaka reaffirmed his ministry’s commitment to grassroots development, with a particular focus on integrating sports into the school system across the state.
“We are nurturing a new generation of champions,” he said. “Watch out for Team Ogun at the next National Youth Games — we’re building something special.”
He also emphasized the ministry’s holistic approach to athlete development, combining education, regular medical checkups, and academic support through a partnership with the federal.medical.centre, Abeokuta.
He appealed to SWAN for continued collaboration in projecting Ogun State’s sporting agenda nationwide. He also encouraged other states to emulate Ogun’s model of strategic sports development.
“Ogun State is on a mission to become the sports capital of Nigeria,” he declared. “And with the support of partners like SWAN, we will get there.”