The Honorable Minister of Youth and Sports, Barrister Solomon Dalung has congratulated the newly elected leadership of the Lagos Chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN).
In a congratulatory message to the association who on Wednesday elected Debo Oshundun as their Chairman for the next 3 years, the Minister said such democratic process is vital to the sustenance of every society.
“Let me congratulate Lagos SWAN for a successful election which has heralded a new Executive to be led by Mr Debo Oshundun who works with the News Agency of Nigeria. To lead a vibrant group such as Lagos SWAN is no mean feat but a call to greater service.”
Barrister Dalung tasked the new executive on the need to look into re-training and welfare of members and make it a priority for the new administration.
“To improve on the quality of delivery, there must be considerable mental and social wellness of your members therefore, the welfare of journalists is a necessity. There are a lot of opportunities for journalists waiting to be harnessed through training, networking and partnerships. The Nigerian media must begin to look into these areas to upgrade the status of journalists.”
He commended the former executives led by Mr Fred Edoreh for providing quality leadership in the last six years which has continued to improve the fortunes of the profession in Nigeria.
“I remember my first assignment outside Abuja after I was appointed Minister of Sports. I visited the association during their anniversary celebration and I hope the incoming Chairman and his EXCO will be able to continue from where Edoreh stopped.”
The Minister promised that the Ministry under his watch will continue to accord sports journalists their deserved respect and work closely with the association.
“Sports Writers are major stakeholders in the sports industry. The recent appointment of some members of SWAN in the National Sports Federations was in recognition of their key role in sports administration and promotion.”
The Minister advised the winners to extend their hands of fellowship to every member to build a formidable association.