NAN MD Reaffirms Support For SWAN@60, Advocates Healthy Newsrooms

Magdalene Ukuedojor
Oct, Wed, 2025

Sports

NAN MD reaffirms support for SWAN@60, advocates healthy newsrooms

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By Ijeoma Okigbo

The Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Ali Muhammad Ali, has pledged strong support for the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) as the association marks its 60th anniversary.

Ali made the pledge on Wednesday in Abuja during a courtesy visit by members of the SWAN@60 Local Organising Committee (LOC), led by the association’s Secretary-General, Mr Ikenna Okonkwo.

He described the anniversary as a landmark event in the history of sports journalism in Nigeria and a moment deserving of national recognition.

“Let me first congratulate you on reaching 60 years. That is no small feat. A diamond jubilee is a huge achievement, and SWAN deserves to be celebrated,” Ali said.

Ali assured the committee of NAN’s commitment to supporting and promoting the celebration across all its platforms.

“NAN is at your service. You can count on us to publicise your programmes. We will support your events and promote your stories as a key stakeholder,” he said.

He noted that as Nigeria’s primary news content provider, NAN has a responsibility to amplify stories that reflect the development of key sectors, including sports.

“We are the main source of news for newspapers, electronic media, bloggers and other platforms. We take that role seriously,” Ali added.

“As journalists, we often spotlight others. But this time, it is fitting that we recognise and celebrate ourselves, particularly those in the sports beat who have dedicated decades to the craft.”

Ali highlighted NAN’s commitment to professionalism, innovation, and staff welfare, particularly in promoting healthy lifestyles in the newsroom.

“At NAN, we believe a healthy workforce is essential. The gym in our basement, fully equipped with treadmills and multi-purpose machines.

“We spend long hours in the newsroom, often at the expense of our health. It’s time we change that narrative and prioritise wellness,” he said.

He further noted that NAN’s access to media monitoring tools and international news partnerships allows it to deliver accurate, credible, and timely news.

“We are not only local, we’re global. Our news exchange agreements with international media ensure we bring a broader perspective to Nigerian journalism,” he added.

In his remarks, Okonkwo expressed gratitude to NAN for its enduring support and collaboration with the association.

He acknowledged NAN as one of the biggest players and major stakeholder as well as the media giant of Africa.

The scribe added that the importance of the agency’s support and collaboration with SWAN, especially as the association celebrates its diamond jubilee could not be over emphasized.

He said the 60th anniversary celebration offers an opportunity to recognise the sacrifices and achievements of sports journalists over the years.

“What we haven’t done enough in this profession is celebrate ourselves,” Okonkwo said.

“We build stars, promote athletes, and enhance the profiles of sports administrators. But we often forget to celebrate those behind the stories.”

He stressed the vital role of the media in the sporting ecosystem.

“Sports thrives on a tripod — the athletes, the administrators, and the media. The celebration is about all of us, but with a special focus on our own members, past and present,” he added.

According to him, the SWAN@60 celebration will hold in Abuja from Oct. 29 to Oct. 31, with delegates expected from across the country.

Activities lined up include lectures, a fitness walk, exhibitions, and a gala night to honour distinguished contributors to sports journalism.

“We’ll have keynote lectures from respected sports leaders, and we’ll also celebrate the unsung heroes of our industry — the writers, editors, and broadcasters,” Okonkwo said.

Also speaking, Ben Ogbemudia, Chairman of the LOC, commended NAN for its consistent support for sports journalism.

He disclosed that the three-day celebration would attract a wide range of participants, including dignitaries from both the public and private sectors.

“We expect high-level guests from all walks of life.

“Some of them include, the Governor of Bayelsa, Douye Diri; the Chairman, National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko; the NSC DG Bukola Olopade; the NIS DG, Philip Shaibu, to mention a few.

“This event will reflect the impact and relevance of sports media in Nigeria,” he said.

Ogbemudia added that preparations were in top gear to ensure the celebration is memorable and befitting of the occasion.

“SWAN@60 is not just an anniversary; it’s a moment of reflection and projection for the future of sports reporting in Nigeria,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Joseph Edeh

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