By Solomon Okpo |Sports Recorder
The Akwa Ibom State Chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has called for a comprehensive revamp of sports development in the state, following deliberations at its State Congress held on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo.
In a communique issued at the end of the Congress, SWAN commended the Akwa Ibom State Government, led by Governor Umo Eno, for the successful hosting of the maiden edition of the Niger Delta Sports Festival, organised by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).
While expressing gratitude to the NDDC for organising the festival aimed at talent discovery across the region, the Congress expressed disappointment over the poor performance of Team Akwa Ibom and appealed for sustained efforts towards improved future outings.
SWAN also thanked Governor Eno for appointing one of its members, Elder Paul Bassey, as the new Commissioner for Sports in the state. The Association congratulated Bassey on his appointment and pledged its readiness to partner with him to enhance sports development.
The Congress appreciated the NDDC for upgrading sports facilities across the state but urged the Ministry of Sports to ensure proper maintenance and regular utilisation of these facilities. It specifically recommended the organisation of competitions in swimming, canoeing, basketball, athletics, and other disciplines to boost grassroots sports.
SWAN decried the vandalism of sports infrastructure at the Uyo Township Stadium and urged the Ministry of Sports to enhance security within and around the facility to safeguard the government’s investments.
Further resolutions from the Congress included a call for the reconstitution of Sports Associations in the state and a strong appeal for the revival of school sports as a means to groom young talents for future competitions.
The communique was signed by Akila Matawal (Chairman), Isaiah Eka (Secretary), and Johnpaul Alumona (Member) of the Communique Drafting Committee, as well as Emmanuel Akpan (Chairman) and Theophilus Udo (Secretary) of SWAN, Akwa Ibom State Chapter.
