The Kwara State chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has congratulated Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on the historic triumph of Kwara United FC in the 2025 President Federation Cup, while calling for greater media inclusion in the state’s sports development agenda.
In a statement jointly signed by its Vice Chairman, Toyin Saheed, and Secretary, Dare Kuti, the association described the cup victory as a well-deserved reward for the Governor’s unwavering support and investment in sports, particularly his consistent sponsorship of the state’s flagship football club.
“Governor AbdulRazaq’s commitment to sports has yielded this sweet and historic result for Kwara United. The Federation Cup victory is a testament to what sustained support and vision can achieve,” the statement read.
However, SWAN urged the Governor to view sports development holistically, noting that the media plays a vital and indispensable role in promoting and sustaining sports successes. They appealed for more deliberate inclusion of sports journalists as key stakeholders in the state’s sporting ecosystem.
“Mr. Governor, the media, through SWAN, has a long-standing history of cooperation and contribution to sports development in Nigeria. SWAN is a globally recognized body aligned with international sports organizations such as FIFA, the International Olympic Committee, CAF, and the NFF,” the statement emphasized.
The association commended the symbolic recognition of Iya Elepa, a local trader and fan of the team, as a nod to the synergy between sports and grassroots enterprise. They noted, however, that while such gestures are commendable, similar appreciation should be extended to the media professionals who cover and promote these achievements.
Despite the magnitude of Kwara United’s victory, SWAN lamented that its members were left to personally bear the cost of covering the club’s campaign, including the final match at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos, with no support or recognition from the state government.
“In contrast, even Abakaliki FC, the runners-up from Ebonyi State, received robust support from their state government, including financial rewards to members of the Ebonyi SWAN chapter who covered their team’s journey,” the statement noted.
The association stressed that Kwara United’s cup win was a victory for the entire state, including the media professionals who documented and reported each step of the historic journey.
“Kwara SWAN was instrumental in projecting this success to a wider audience. Yet, there was no official recognition or support, unlike what was done in other states,” a senior member of the association said.
“SWAN is now appealing to Governor AbdulRazaq to consider better support packages and recognition for sports journalists, especially during major sporting events.
The association emphasized that quality media coverage not only amplifies achievements but also enhances the state’s reputation on national and international platforms.
“This is a sincere call for inclusion, appreciation, and support. The Kwara SWAN deserves better,” the statement concluded.
