The Commissioner for Sports Development in Bayelsa State, Honourable Daniel Igali, has praised the pivotal role of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) in the development of sports across the nation.
Igali made this assertion during the Bayelsa 2024 SWAN WEEK awards night, which marked the conclusion of a week-long series of events including a road walk, football matches, and indoor games such as Scrabble, Chess, and Table Tennis.
Daniel Igali, who also serves as the President of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation, emphasized that the achievements of athletes and administrators in various competitions cannot gain widespread recognition and acceptance without the support and reportage provided by sports writers.
“I want to start by giving kudos to the organizers of these events. Each time we have our private conversations, I keep telling them that, especially in the realm of sports, if you don’t have SWAN and broadcasters, it’s like a tree falling in the forest with no one around to hear it,” Igali said.
“The Sports Writers in Bayelsa State have done an outstanding job of broadcasting the achievements of our athletes, umpires, and administrators not only within Nigeria but also to Africa and the rest of the world, and I truly want to applaud you.”
Honourable Igali, who was delighted to be recognized by SWAN, dedicated the award to the Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, and his deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, for providing a supportive platform for him to serve.
Igali reiterated the state government’s unwavering commitment to transforming the fortunes of sports in Bayelsa through its drive to enhance sports facilities across the state.
“I want to dedicate this award to His Excellency, Governor Douye Diri, and his deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhurdjakpo, for all their support for sports. Often, when people ask me how we’ve managed to achieve modest successes in sports, I tell them it’s because the Governor, having been a former Commissioner of Sports, understands the challenges we face.”
“As Commissioners of Sports, our duty is to ensure that we advance sports beyond its previous state. Our current goals include providing the necessary facilities not only in the state capital but also in Asoama and other parts of the local government areas in Bayelsa.”
Honourable Daniel Igali also confirmed that by the end of the first quarter of 2025, the Wrestling Gym at the Samson Siasia Stadium, which had been on hold for some time, would be completed.
