In commemoration of its Diamond Jubilee, the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) visited the House of Representatives on Wednesday to formally request stronger collaboration with the lawmakers.
This partnership is aimed at boosting sports development and media advocacy throughout the nation.
National President Benjamin Isaiah led the SWAN delegation, which met with the House Committee on Sports.
The delegation, composed of the National Executive Committee and the Local Organising Committee, sought legislative support while outlining the association’s upcoming anniversary activities.
“We are sincerely grateful to Mr. Speaker and the Committee on Sports for always identifying with us,” Isaiah said.
“Over the past six decades, SWAN has played a vital role in promoting sports journalism and supporting policies that drive the growth of sports in Nigeria. It is only fitting that we celebrate those who have contributed to this journey.”
He added that the association hoped the partnership will extend beyond the anniversary, fostering long‑term synergy between sports journalists and lawmakers.
The diamond jubilee celebration will span a week, kicking off on Friday, October 24, 2025, with Jumu’ah prayers and including a thanksgiving service on Sunday, October 26.
The full series of events will conclude on October 31, Persecondnews reports.
Benjamin said: “Highlights of the Jubilee will include a sports summit with papers from the Director‑General of the National Sports Commission, the Director‑General of the National Institute of Sports, and veteran journalist Mumin Adahok, plus a novelty match featuring the Federal Executive Council against SWAN members.”
The finale will feature a full council meeting, the investiture of five new National Patrons, the launch of a ₦2 billion appeal fund for a SWAN headquarters in Abuja, and the Diamond Jubilee Awards honoring 60 distinguished personalities—including the Speaker of the House and the Chairman of the House Sports Committee—for their contributions to sports.
“For an association that has existed for six decades, it is time we own a befitting edifice of our own,” Isaiah remarked, urging stakeholders to support the fundraising effort.
The Chairman of the House Committee on Sports, representing the Speaker, praised SWAN for six decades of professionalism and reaffirmed the legislature’s commitment to partnering on initiatives that promote national unity, youth empowerment, and economic growth through sport.
He pledged that the House will actively participate in the jubilee events and continue to back SWAN’s advocacy for a stronger, united sporting community in Nigeria
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