Ugochukwu Iwuchukwu
Rivers State Governor, Barr. Nyesom Wike says the state would continue to develop sports at the grassroots and national levels.
Governor Nyesom Wike said this while speaking at the 2019 National Triennial Conference of the Sports Writers Association SWAN, in Port Harcourt.
Governor Wike, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Tammy Danagogo, emphasized that sportswriters hold a crucial angle in the sports tripod by being the vanguard of the spectator.
He called on sports writers and administrators across the country to tap into the full potentials and values sports creates to ensure its full benefits.
Governor Wike also said that sports boost social life, enhance health, empower financially and creates business opportunities.
“ I hope that you do your jobs passionately and with every amount of vigour adding more value than sentimental statements”, he said.
The Governor further regretted the lack of structured strings of income in the sports arena and bemoaned the release of funds only close to the tournament without proper consideration to training and preparations by some sports administrators and sponsors.
He described the situation as a means to nourishing corruption which is aided by cabals that some sportswriters belong to and supports.
“I believe sports writers have a big duty to salvage our sports and make things right. As I wish you a successful conference,” he said.
Earlier, the conference under the Chairmanship of Chief Adokiye Amiesimaka had former presidents of SWAN and veterans who delivered goodwill messages encouraging more female participation in the association and the need for unity.
President of SWAN, Mr Honour Sirawoo thanked delegates for attending the two days conference.
