The Senator representing Ogun Central Senatorial District, Shuaib Afolabi Salisu, has donated working tools to members of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Ogun State chapter as s part of efforts to support media coverage of the ongoing 22nd National Sports Festival, Gateway Games 2024.
The donation, which took place on Friday at the SWAN Secretariat located within the newly renovated MKO Abiola International Stadium in Abeokuta, included press bags, tag jackets, water bottles, power banks, and writing tools.
Speaking during the presentation, Senator Salisu, who also chairs the Senate Committee on ICT and Cybersecurity, emphasized the historical importance of journalism in Abeokuta and Nigeria at large.
“This is the home of sports legends like Falilat Ogunkoya, Segun Odegbami, and Muda Lawal. Journalism in Nigeria and West Africa started in 1859 right here in Abeokuta.
“So when a programme of this scale is hosted in our capital, the least I can do is to support journalism practice,” he said.
The lawmaker reiterated his commitment to promoting journalism and commended the Prince Dapo Abiodun-led administration for its ongoing support for the sports sector and infrastructural development.
“I’m here to support the state government. I must always return to give backing to the wonderful job Governor Abiodun is doing,” he added.
Salisu also noted that his donation was not limited to Ogun SWAN members alone but extended to visiting sportswriters across the country, enabling them to take back a piece of the Gateway State.
He was accompanied by Dr. Mumini Alao, a veteran sports journalist and his former schoolmate at the University of Lagos.
In his remarks, the Ogun State SWAN Chairman, Azeez Michael-Ogunsiji, described Senator Salisu as a “rare politician” who honoured his promise without delay.
“When I met him last year, he pledged to support us. He didn’t wait for a formal letter or call. He walked in unannounced and fulfilled his words. We are grateful,” Ogunsiji said.
He lauded the Abiodun administration for upgrading the SWAN Secretariat and appealed for further assistance to fully equip the facility to serve as a befitting workspace.
Ogunsiji also charged Ogun athletes to aim for a top-three finish at the National Sports Festival, citing the government’s investment in their preparation.
“We have a rich sporting heritage — from Segun Odegbami to Falilat Ogunkoya and Muda Lawal. This festival is our chance to showcase Ogun’s sporting excellence. With the level of support we’ve received, there’s no excuse not to deliver,” he said.
The 22nd National Sports Festival, tagged Gateway Games 2024, has attracted athletes and officials from across Nigeria and is seen as a major platform for talent discovery and state pride.
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