The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) will honour a cream of its past leaders that have made useful contributions to lift the association at various levels.
Among those sporting journalists that will receive special recognition award include, Mr Loveday Herbert, former sports editor of New Waves newspaper, a publication of the Bayelsa State Newspaper Corporation who served the association at State and regional levels.
Mr Ebi Avi, formerly South South/ South East chairman of the association in the 1990s. Mr. Emeka Iyama, a former Sports Commissioner in Abia State and Editor-In- Chief of defunct Sportslink in Lagos. Alloy Chukwuemeka popularly known as ACC. Alloy held several positions at National level and remain a solid pillar to Kwara State SWAN. Also, Mr. Fred Edoreh, a former Lagos State chairman and
Ms Chigozie Chukwuleta of Anambra State.
The awardees will receive special recognition and award as Veteran Sports Journalists in recognition of their immense support and contributions to sports reportage and journalism in the country.
The award will be bestowed during the upcoming SWAN @60 Diamond Jubilee Celebration scheduled to hold from October 29th to 31th, 2025 in Abuja.
The message conveying the news of the upcoming programme and award was made public through a letter endorsed by the Secretary-General of the association, Ikenna Okonkwo dated October 13th, 2025 with the caption, “LETTER OF RECOGNITION – SWAN @60 VETERANS SPORTS JOURNALIST AWARD.”
The letters despatched their State Chapters, on behalf of the National Executive Committee and members of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), read in parts” I am pleased to inform you that you have been selected for special recognition as part of activities marking the SWAN Diamond Jubilee Celebration (SWAN @60) scheduled to hold from October 29 to 31, 2025, in Abuja.
“This honour is in recognition of your outstanding contributions, professionalism and enduring service to the growth and integrity of sports journalism in Nigeria. Over the years, your commitment, mentorship and passion for the craft have inspired generations of Journalists and enriched the nation’s sporting narrative.
“As a valued pioneer and pillar of our profession, this recognition is a token of appreciation for your sacrifices and legacy in promoting excellence, fairness and credibility in sports reporting.
“We look forward to celebrating you at the SWAN @60 Award and Appeal Fund Ceremony on October 31, 2025 at the VIP Lounge, Package A, Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja. Please accept our warm congratulations and best wishes,” the letter reads.
The various recipients have expressed delight with SWAN and pledged their commitment to the association. In the letter of acceptance, Mr Loveday Herbert said ” I am honoured to have been selected and greatly appreciate the opportunity to join the distinguished awardees at this Diamond celebration.
