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SWAN to NSC, stakeholders: Recognise Nigerian Sports Journalists for decades of dedication and sacrifice
By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde
The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has called on the National Sports Commission (NSC) and other key sports stakeholders to accord overdue recognition, respect, and support to Nigerian sports journalists, whose commitment over decades has significantly shaped the development of sports in the country—often at great personal and financial cost.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by SWAN Secretary-General, Ambassador Ikenna Okonkwo, on behalf of the association’s President, Mr Isaiah Benjamin, the body expressed deep concern over what it described as the “systematic neglect” of sports journalists by sports administrators and institutions, despite their frontline roles in documenting and amplifying sporting success.
“Unlike in other parts of the world, the media in Nigeria are often left to their fate. This neglect is appalling and unacceptable,” Benjamin stated.
Journalists: The Unsung Pillars of Nigerian Sports
SWAN highlighted the selfless commitment of Nigerian sports journalists, noting that many often sponsor their own participation in both local and international sporting events, bearing the burden of logistics, transport, and accommodation. Despite these challenges, they continue to play a critical role in the careers of athletes, coaches, and administrators—right from grassroots levels to elite competitions.
Citing the 2024 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, SWAN revealed that over 25 Nigerian sports journalists traveled to cover the event using personal resources, with no government or institutional sponsorship. Beyond reporting, they stood in solidarity with the Super Falcons, offering passionate support that boosted morale and visibility throughout the tournament.
“The experience of a regular sports journalist in Nigeria is so pathetic. Many face intense hardship, without receiving any recognition or support,” Benjamin lamented.
A Call for Equal Recognition
While acknowledging the recent gestures by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and state governors in honouring athletes and technical officials with national awards, homes, and financial rewards, SWAN insists that the media must not be sidelined.
“Yes, athletes and coaches deserve celebration. But journalists, who consistently champion the growth of Nigerian sports and amplify its success stories, also deserve meaningful recognition,” Benjamin stressed.
He called out a pattern where journalists are embraced during crises but sidelined during planning and official activities:
“Why do administrators run to the media when in need of image laundering or support, yet exclude them from critical institutional events under the excuse of ‘no funds’?”
Exclusion Must End
According to SWAN, the consistent omission of media practitioners—especially SWAN members—from key national and international events reflects a deeper disregard within the system. The association urged the leadership of the NSC, NFF, and other federations to incorporate the media as core stakeholders in all sporting plans and projects.
“The role of sports journalists is not supplementary. It is fundamental,” Benjamin concluded.
“Moving forward, investment in their welfare and professional inclusion must be treated as essential to the sustainable growth of Nigerian sports.”
