The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has expressed satisfaction with the overall performance of team Nigeria at the just concluded 13th African Games in Ghana.
President of SWAN, Mr. Isaiah Benjamin, who spoke in Abuja during a post African Games World Press Conference, conveyed and addressed by the Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh, attributed the successful participation and exploits of team Nigeria to strategic and proactive measures by the Sports Ministry leadership hierarchy.
While recalling the performance of podium performance of Nigeria in the recent times at the Games, President Benjamin reckoned that the outcome of its 13th edition stood the country out.
Nigeria finished strong at second position out of 52 countries, with 47 Gold, 33 Silver and 41 Bronze medals.
He said, “I must not fail to specially commend the high level of human management skills of the Honourable Minister, Senator John Owan Enoh. Despite the short period that athletes and officials had in camp before proceeding to Accra, the leadership of the ministry ensured that no stone was left unturned in making that the athletes are kept informed about their welfare and every other arrangement.
“The very interesting aspect is the steady assurances, backed by action by the Honourable Minister which I believe propelled the athletes to put in their best in virtually every sport. Again, the Minister’s straight postulation about preparing for the 2027 African Games immediately is a welcome development.
“Also, the other ministry and team officials were outstanding in carrying out their duties. There was this continuous flow of information from the Minister’s media team such that my colleagues always had a pull to pick from.”
A press statement by Ikenna Okonkwo, SWAN Secretary-General said the country’s number one Sports Writer, however, singled out teaming Nigerian Sports Writers who were in Ghana for high octane applause.
“I sincerely want to use this opportunity to appreciate and congratulate members of the Fourth Estate of the Realm who trooped to Ghana and ensured that team Nigeria was given adequate coverage.
“In fact, the coverage by over 50 Sports Journalists in Ghana, then the many Sports Reporters/Editors who couldn’t make it the Games was outstanding. Truly, we placed Nigeria’s image positively on a high. At a time, it was as if Nigeria was the first on the medals’ table due to intense reportage,” the SWAN President reckoned.
He then enjoined the Sports ministry to sustain the gains of African Games by intensifying preparation for 2024 Olympics in Paris, France.
