Sound knowledge of technical terminologies, effective language of communication and comprehensive understanding of the rules and regulations of sports have been identified as attributes of a good commentator and sports writer.
Ace broadcaster and Olympian, Mallam Hammed Adio stated this on Friday in Ilorin at a one-day seminar organized by the Kwara State chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), for it’s members at the Conference Room of the Kwara State Sports Council.
Mallam Adio who frowned at the way quacks are taking over journalism profession due to social media liberty, challenged sports writers to distinguish themselves from mere Facebook Administrators by embarking on research and historical background of sports, to guarantee accurate and correct information of the game.
He implored SWAN members to be sensitive and avoid the use of negative and derogatory languages in their reportage, noting that fairness, truthfulness , balance are the hallmark of a good sports reporter as facts are sacred and opinions are private.
He reiterated that the job of sports reporter is challenging, demanding, exiciting and could only be fulfilling if taken with absolute seriousness and all sense of determination and commitment.
Earlier, the Chairman of Kwara SWAN, Mallam Jimoh Bashir appreciated Mallam Adio for devoting his precious time for journalists to tap from his reservoir of Knowledge and believed that what members have learnt would be put to practice.
Jimoh, who was elated with the academic exercise presented by Adio later announced him as an Ambassador of Kwara SWAN.
Also Speaking, the Chairman of Education Committee of Kwara SWAN, Bayour Issah said that the seminar was geared towards broaden the knowledge of nembers to enhance effective service delivery in their various media organisations, and will be a routine exercise from time to time.
