As Sports Journalists roll out drums to celebrate 55 years of sports writing in the country, Sports Writers Association of Nigerian (SWAN) in the Federal Capital Territory has expressed optimism that the coming years would be more fulfilling.
Chairman of the Association, Comrade Ndubueze Chidoka who is still in the mourning mood after losing two of his members in the past week said in a statement that the vigour and passion which Sports Writers have shown have sparked quality reportage in all sporting sphere in Nigeria.
Chidoka further posited that the unparallel commitment over the years has continued to bear the desired result even though a lot more was required in a bid to ensure accelerated sports development.
While dedicating this year’s celebration of SWAN existence to all those who have remained undaunted despite the challenges associated with Sports writing, reporting and presentation, the SWAN Leader in the Nation’s capital particularly paid glowing tribute to late veteran Journalist, Olajide Fashikun who held on as worthy SWAN Ambassador and died as an active Media Professional.
“I’m still in shock after losing two of our colleagues, Fashikun and Chris Edoga last week to the cold hands of death. But for the unfortunate incident, we intended to carry out more activities aimed at celebrating ourselves as colleagues.
“However, I’m using this time to urge my Media associates to remain resolute. Journalism (Sports writing inclusive) is a very tough one. It is our duty to continuously use or see the profession as call to serve our fellow humanity, faithfully through our various media platforms.
“I also felicitate with our National leadership, led by Comrade Honour Sirawo and past leaders who have been involved in pioneering the affairs of this great association. We can only get better and stronger in oneness and pursuit of common purpose.”