In a significant gesture aimed at bolstering media coverage and promoting sports development in Ogun State, Senator Shuaib Afolabi Salisu, representing Ogun Central Senatorial District and Chairman of the Senate Committee on ICT and Cybersecurity, has donated essential work tools to members of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Ogun State chapter, ahead of the highly anticipated 22nd National Sports Festival.
The donation ceremony, held on Friday at the SWAN Secretariat in Abeokuta, featured an array of items including press bags, tag jackets, water bottles, power banks, and writing tools—all designed to support sports journalists in their coverage of the festival.
Speaking at the event, Senator Salisu underscored the pivotal role of journalism in shaping the state’s identity and acknowledged its historic significance in Nigeria’s media evolution.
“Ogun State is the home of sporting icons like Falilat Ogunkoya, Segun Odegbami, and Muda Lawal. When a festival of this magnitude takes place in our capital, it is only fitting that I lend my support to the professionals documenting these events,” he stated.
He further emphasized Abeokuta’s legacy as the birthplace of journalism in Nigeria and West Africa, dating back to 1859. “As a proud ambassador of this heritage, I am committed to initiatives that enhance journalism and empower those practicing it,” he added.
Beyond supporting sports journalism, Senator Salisu expressed his unwavering endorsement of the Ogun State Government under Governor Dapo Abiodun, applauding the administration’s dedication to development.
“I am here not only to empower journalists but also to reaffirm my support for the state government. Governor Abiodun is doing a remarkable job, and I believe in contributing whenever possible,” he remarked.
The senator reiterated his desire to ensure Ogun State remains a beacon of excellence. “Journalism has deep roots here. Therefore, anything that enhances the profession or benefits practitioners deserves my full backing. My support for SWAN extends beyond Ogun State—it is for the association as a whole. When journalists from other states return home, they will carry a piece of the Gateway State with them,” he affirmed.
Expressing gratitude on behalf of the association, Ogun State SWAN Chairman, Michael Ogunsiji, hailed Senator Salisu’s generosity, describing him as a rare politician who fulfills his promises.
“I first discussed this initiative with him late last year, and he assured me of his support. True to his word, he arrived unannounced at our secretariat and made good on his pledge. We are sincerely grateful,” Ogunsiji stated.
He also commended the ongoing improvements to the SWAN Secretariat at MKO Abiola Stadium, courtesy of Governor Abiodun’s administration, and appealed for further assistance in furnishing the workspace.
“As we work toward capacity development for our members, we recognize the need for more resources to create a functional and professional environment. The government is upgrading our secretariat, and once the remodeling is complete, we will require additional equipment. I urge the distinguished senator to continue supporting us in making our office truly befitting of the association’s status,” he appealed.
Turning his attention to Ogun athletes preparing for the festival, Ogunsiji called on them to honor the state’s rich sporting heritage and strive for a top-three finish in the competition.
“This is Ogun State—an epitome of excellence. The government has invested significantly in your preparation, so nothing short of gold should be the target,” he charged.
He expressed confidence in the athletes’ ability to excel, citing the unwavering support and morale-boosting efforts from Governor Abiodun’s administration.
“With the level of preparation, training, and exposure given to our athletes, we expect outstanding results. Ogun State has produced sports legends—Segun Odegbami, Falilat Ogunkoya, Nigeria’s first female Olympian, and the iconic Muda Lawal. We once dominated the boxing scene, and today, with renewed vigor, our athletes are ready to make history. They must honor the taxpayers who have funded their development by delivering results that will make Ogun proud,” he concluded.
