The Ogun State Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon. Wasiu Isiaka has commended the state chapter of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) for improving on sports journalism in the state through various transformational programmes.
Hon. Isiaka said the series of programmes embarked upon by the association under the leadership of Michael-Azeez Ogunsiji in the last one year, has renewed vigour of the State government in her efforts to develop sports at all levels.
The sports Commissioner disclosed this on Tuesday at a workshop organized by Ogun state chapter of SWAN for 114 Mass Communication Students of Chrisland University, Abeokuta in commemoration of the 2024 World Sports Journalists’ Day.
Isiaka said, “To Ogun SWAN members, I thank you for your unwavering passion and commitment to the growth of sports in the Gateway state.
“Ogun SWAN has redefined sports journalism; your concerted efforts to train these students on Advanced Specialized Sports Writing will remain indelible forever and point of reference in years to come.
“I am convinced that exercise like this will help in projecting the renewed vigour of the State government in her efforts to develop sports at all levels, discovering and nurturing athletes to stardom and particularly hosting a befitting National Sports Festival tagged Gateway Games Ogun 2024 come January 2025.
“As we are gathered here, the government is working hard and is poised to use sports to reposition our society.
There is no doubt the fact that our State is blessed with some of the best sports journalists in the country with notable names like, our lecturer, Mr. Kunle Solaja, Kunle Oluwusi, Kunle Salami, Gboyega Okegbenro, Dimeji Awoyemi, Wale Sobande Rotimi Oduniyi,Biodun Alabi Hakeem Akintunde.
“It is with the strength of this, that I’m calling on SWAN Ogun State to build on the legacies of these ICONs to collaborate with Ogun State to move the sports sector forward.”
He, therefore, charged sports journalists across the world to uphold the values of accuracy, integrity, and respect in their reportage.
He emphasized that their report should reflect the true essence of sports.
“As you celebrate this day, I urge you to renew your commitment to excellence and dedication in your craft”, Isiaka said
He advised the sports journalists to acquire more knowledge about reporting sporting activities, urging them to be united and display the spirit of sportsmanship in their dealings.
In her welcome address, the Vice Chancellor of the Institution, Professor Chinedum Babalola represented by her Deputy, Professor Ebenezer Farounbi who described sports as a field that not only covers games and events but also tells compelling stories that resonate with audiences globally.
Babalola expressed gratitude to SWAN for the workshop, as their dedication in promoting sports journalism and educating the next generation of sports journalists is commendable.
She emphasized that the event would inspire the students to pursue excellence in their respective fields, encouraging them to take advantage of the opportunity and engage actively.
While delivering their lectures with the Theme “The Integral Role of Sports Journalism In The Media Landscape” the Guest Lecturers, the former Vice President, SWAN, Deacon Kunle Oluwusi and the Assistant General Manager, News and Current Affairs Department, OGTV, Mr. Biodun Alabi said that the Internet has made sports writing easier than before, enjoining them to make use of it in promoting sports.
They urged the students to be passionate and committed to sports reportage.
Speaking on behalf of other participants, Miss Oluwatosin Odusanya, appreciated SWAN for the workshop, promising to make use of what they have learnt in their chosen careers.
