The Ebonyi State Sports Council has expressed its readiness to work closely with the Ebonyi chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) to advance sporting activities across the state.
This assurance was given on Thursday in Abakaliki by the Acting Director of Sports, Alep David, when the SWAN leadership paid him a courtesy visit. He acknowledged the vital role sports journalists have played in highlighting government policies and sporting programmes, noting that many of the achievements recorded in the sector would not have gained recognition without their consistent coverage.
David pointed out that the revival of football in the state, particularly through Abakaliki Football Club, was supported by strong media engagement. He recalled the club’s impressive performance in the President Federation Cup, where it finished as runner-up in its debut season.
He also praised SWAN for promoting cricket, describing it as the state’s strongest medal-winning sport at regional and national competitions. According to him, cricket has now taken the spotlight once held by hockey.
The director further assured the association of the council’s support in hosting a successful zonal cricket championship.
In his remarks, SWAN Chairman Ndubuisi Nwogha thanked the director for the warm reception and pledged the association’s commitment to objective and impactful sports reporting. He also urged the council to facilitate the immediate release of an allocated office space for the association.
Chukwuemeka Opara, a former SWAN chairman and head of the championship’s Local Organising Committee, announced that the cricket tournament is scheduled to begin in April. He emphasized the team’s determination to deliver a well-organized event and called for collective support to ensure its success.
NAN
