By Goodness Ndukuba, Awka on June 19, 2025

The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), South East Zone, has decried deliberate exclusion from the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) of 23rd National Sports Festival (NSF) scheduled for Enugu.

Ikemefuna Asika, Vice President of the South East Zone and Secretary, Kennedy Onwunali in a statement on Thursday, expressed “serious concern” over the LOC’s composition, unveiled by the Enugu state government and endorsed by the National Sports Commission (NSC).

They condemned what it described as a “wholly unacceptable” act, questioning the rationale behind sidelining one of the most critical stakeholders in Nigeria’s sports ecosystem. 

“For an event of such magnitude, media coverage, public mobilization, and strategic communication are not optional they are essential,” it stated.

It noted that the absence of SWAN representatives on the committee undermines these vital components and disrespects the role of sports journalists who have remained committed to the promotion and growth of sports across Nigeria.

"Stakeholders and observers alike have called the exclusion a political miscalculation and a slap in the face of professionalism. Many believe that the NSC’s silence and endorsement of a LOC that lacks media representation raises concerns about transparency, fairness, and strategic planning.

"SWAN is demanding an immediate review of the LOC’s membership to reflect inclusivity and professionalism, insisting that the committee as currently constituted cannot guarantee the broad success and nationwide coverage expected of a national sports festival.

"The ball is now in the court of the NSC and the Enugu state government to act swiftly and correct what many already consider a damaging oversight," it affirmed.

Source Daily Sports Nigeria

Posted June 19, 2025

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