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Governor Abdullahi Sule to receive SWAN National Merit Sports Award
Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State has confirmed his readiness to personally receive the prestigious Sports Writers’ Association of Nigeria (SWAN) National Merit Sports Award, in recognition of his administration’s contributions to sports development.
The Governor made the disclosure on Tuesday at the Government House, Lafia, during the official unveiling of kits and trophies for the forthcoming Governor’s Cup Football Tournament.
“Sport is not just for pleasure — it is now business the world over,” Governor Sule stated. “In Nasarawa State, we are taking sports seriously, and we are beginning to see the impact and rewards of our huge investments in it.”
The Governor highlighted several milestones achieved under his administration, noting the successes of the state’s teams across different levels of competition.
“Our men’s football team, Nasarawa United, are currently on top of the Nigeria Premier League table; our female Premier League side, Nasarawa Amazons, recently lifted the Governor Douye Diri Maiden Pre-season Cup after beating Bayelsa Queens in Yenagoa. Another team doing the State proud is Basira FC, who play in the second-tier national league. They keep breaking barriers,” he said.
Sule emphasized that Nasarawa remains one of the few states with active teams in all categories of Nigerian football leagues, underscoring his administration’s consistent support for sporting initiatives.
“We have hosted and funded several sporting events and seminars, sponsored athletes and technical officials for refresher courses within and outside Nigeria, and will continue to be open to partnerships that develop sports and talents for global recognition,” he added.
The Governor also commended the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Kwanta Yakubu, the State Football Association led by Salisu Usman Galadima, and all stakeholders for their collaborative efforts.
“People give me most of the credit, but I must commend the Commissioner and his team. What we are doing is a collective effort,” he said. “I expect everyone to join me in Abuja for the award — even if I have to pay for your accommodation.”
The SWAN National Merit Sports Award, part of the association’s 60th anniversary celebrations, will take place on Friday, October 31, 2025, at the VIP Lounge, Media Centre, MKO Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.
The two-day event will feature lectures, an appeal fundraising, investiture ceremonies, and a novelty football match between SWAN and a selected team.
Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, will serve as the Distinguished Guest of Honour.
SWAN President Comrade Benjamin Isaiah said Governor Sule’s selection was a fitting tribute to his visionary leadership and enduring passion for sports development, which have earned him respect as a champion of sports excellence in Nigeria.
