The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Kogi Chapter, has lauded Gov. Ahmed Ododo’s achievements on the occasion of his one-year anniversary in office.
The association, in a communique issued after its congress on Thursday in Lokoja, however, called on the governor to do more in the area of sports development.
The communique signed by SWAN Chairman, Bishop Aturu, commended the governor’s leadership style and commitment to inclusive governance.
The sports writers commended the administration’s efforts in promoting peace, unity, and development in the state but expressed dissatisfaction with the happenings around the sport cycle.
The association noted that there was an urgent need for increased government attention to sports development to attract more laurels to the state.
“Kogi SWAN hereby urged the governor to prioritise the revitalisation of sporting infrastructure, particularly the state’s deteriorating sports facilities, which have been a long-standing concern to athletes, sports administrators, and enthusiasts.
“This could be done through sustainable policies that will enhance grassroots sports development, talent discovery, and investment in sports across various disciplines, ‘ it noted.
The association further emphasised the role of sports in youth engagement, crime reduction, and economic growth, stressing that a well-structured sports sector could contribute immensely to the state’s economy and development agenda.
SWAN expressed gladness about certain initiatives in the sports sector, particularly the renovation of the Handball Court in Lokoja, championed by the Kogi State Handball Association.
“Although such a step is a welcome development worthy of commendation, we still call for a broader intervention across all sports disciplines.
“Therefore, we are urging the government to create an enabling environment for athletes and sports amateurs and professionals in the state to thrive.
“With SWAN as the umbrella body for sports journalists in the state, we pledged to continue our advocacy for improved sports development through increased funding and effective policies that would elevate sports in the state to national and international standards.
“We hereby reiterate our readiness to collaborate with the state government, private sector, and other relevant stakeholders in advancing sporting aspirations in the state,” the association pledged.
SWAN expressed hope that within the second year, the state government would take proactive steps in rehabilitating sports facilities, establishing training programmes, and supporting athletes to compete at higher levels. (NAN)
