The Kwara chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) stressed the vital role of the media in maintaining sports development throughout the state in a strong joint statement issued by Vice Chairman Toyin Saheed and Secretary Dare Kuti on Tuesday in Ilorin.
The association started by congratulating Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Kwara United FC’s historic victory in the 2025 President Federation Cup. They said the win was a well-deserved reflection of the governor’s steadfast dedication and wise investment in sports, especially his continuous support of the state’s premier football team.
“This wonderful and historic accomplishment for Kwara United is the result of Governor AbdulRazaq’s efforts. “The Federation Cup victory amply demonstrates the potential of consistent vision and support,” the statement said.
Kwara SWAN, on the other hand, advocated for a more comprehensive strategy for sports development, one that actively incorporates sports journalists as important participants in the state’s athletic environment.
The association emphasized SWAN’s lasting impact by pointing to its widespread acceptance and affiliation with important international sports organizations, such as the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), CAF, FIFA, and the International Olympic Committee. This emphasizes how important sports media professionals are to promoting and chronicling sporting accomplishments across the country.
The governor’s symbolic presentation of a N1 million incentive to a groundnut vendor and Kwara United supporter was also commended in the statement as a praiseworthy gesture. However, it recommended that the same gratitude be given to the journalists who relentlessly followed the team’s run to triumph.
“Our members personally funded their coverage of the team’s campaign and the final match at Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos, despite the significance of Kwara United’s win, receiving neither support nor recognition from the state government,” the association bemoaned.
On the other hand, the statement noted that even Abakaliki FC, the Ebonyi State runners-up, had strong support from their government, including funding for Ebonyi SWAN members to cover the team.
The Kwara SWAN adamantly declared that Kwara United’s victory was a victory for the entire state, including the journalists who covered every second of the momentous expedition.
In light of this, the group urged Governor AbdulRazaq to create stronger frameworks for sports journalists’ recognition and support, particularly during important athletic events.
