SWAN Urges NSC, Stakeholders To Recognize, Reward Nigeria Sports Journalists

The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has called on the National Sports Commission (NSC), the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), and other critical stakeholders to end the prolonged neglect of Nigerian sports journalists, demanding due recognition, support, and reward for their immense contributions to sports development in the country.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by the SWAN Secretary-General, Ambassador Ikenna Okonkwo, on behalf of the President, Mr. Isaiah Benjamin, the association decried what it described as "systemic neglect" of sports journalists despite their visible and consistent impact on Nigeria's sporting ecosystem. President Benjamin lamented that unlike in other countries, Nigerian sports media practitioners are often left to bear the cost of reporting, sometimes at great personal and financial sacrifice. “Journalists pay their way through to attend and cover competitions—both locally and internationally. They face harsh weather, exorbitant transportation and accommodation costs, and significant risks, yet they are often ignored or treated with disdain by administrators,” he said. Citing the just-concluded 2024 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, Benjamin revealed that over 25 Nigerian journalists covered the event through personal funding, with no institutional support. Beyond reportage, these journalists actively supported the Super Falcons from the stands, boosting team morale and visibility. He described the experience of many Nigerian sports journalists as “pathetic,” noting that their efforts go unrewarded, unlike the athletes and officials who receive national honors, monetary incentives, and houses. “While we commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, state governors, and past leaders for recognizing and rewarding athletes and coaches, the media—who amplify these achievements—must also be acknowledged,” he stated. Benjamin criticized sports administrators for sidelining journalists in the planning and execution of events, despite relying on them in times of crisis. "Why is there always a claim of 'no funds' when it comes to involving the media in key events, yet administrators find ways to maintain their comfort zones? It is hypocritical for the same administrators to run to the media during their personal storms but exclude them from institutional engagements," he queried. He further condemned the deliberate exclusion of SWAN and sports writers from major national and international sporting activities, especially by the top hierarchy of the now-resurrected National Sports Commission. Calling for urgent reforms, Benjamin urged the NSC, NFF, and all federations to begin inclusive planning that values the role of journalists as core stakeholders—not mere appendages—in Nigeria’s sports development. “In other climes, governments and corporate bodies invest in the welfare of the sporting media. Nigeria must emulate this if we are to build a robust and respected sports industry,” he concluded.