SWAN To NSC: Sports Journalists Deserve Better Recognition and Support
The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has made a passionate appeal to the National Sports Commission (NSC) and other key stakeholders in the Nigerian sports industry to end the consistent neglect of sports journalists and give them the recognition they rightfully deserve.
In a statement issued by SWAN Secretary-General, Ambassador Ikenna Okonkwo, on behalf of the Association’s President, Mr. Isaiah Benjamin, the body lamented the disregard shown towards sports journalists who have, for decades, worked tirelessly often at great personal expense to promote Nigerian sports.
President Benjamin described the situation as “appalling and unacceptable,” pointing out that in contrast to global best practices, Nigerian sports media are frequently sidelined and undervalued by those in charge of the sector.
“Journalists in this country pay their way to cover local and international competitions, brave harsh conditions, and yet face indifference and exclusion,” he said, citing the 2024 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, where over 25 Nigerian sports journalists attended without any financial or institutional support.
While applauding President Bola Tinubu and past leaders for recognising athletes and coaches through rewards and honours, the SWAN President stressed that the media who amplify these achievements and play a critical role in shaping public support are being ignored.
“In other parts of the world, sporting media are treated as essential partners. But here, even the highest-ranking officials at the now-defunct Ministry of Sports treat us as expendable. That must change,” Benjamin stated.
He also criticised the tendency of some administrators to only engage the media when facing personal scandals, while routinely excluding them from crucial events and decision-making processes.
“Why is it always the excuse of ‘no funds’ when it comes to media inclusion, yet administrators find endless funds for their own convenience?” he asked.
SWAN is now urging the NSC, Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), and all sporting federations to begin treating sports journalists as integral stakeholders — not just during crises, but in planning, implementation, and celebration.
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