The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has taken a swipe at Ebonyi, Gombe, Zamfara, Borno, and Kebbi States over their failure to participate in the 2025 National Youth Games (NYG), describing their absence as a boycott that undermines grassroots sports development in Nigeria.
This was contained in a communiqué signed by Chimezie Anaso (Chairman, Anambra Chapter/Chairman of Drafting Committee), Abel Leonard (Secretary, Nasarawa Chapter/Secretary of Drafting Committee), Johnson Bassey (Akwa Ibom Chapter), and SWAN Secretary-General, Ikenna Okonkwo, at the end of its National Convention held on September 4, 2025, inside the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba, venue of the 9th NYG.
SWAN warned that the continued withdrawal of states from national sports activities sends a dangerous signal about governments’ commitment to youth engagement, empowerment, and the future of Nigerian sports.
The body insisted that sports remain a proven tool to fight insecurity, reduce unemployment, and foster unity among young people.
The association, however, commended the National Sports Commission (NSC) for sustaining the Games and urged tighter measures against age-cheating to protect the integrity of the youth-centered competition.
It also congratulated Lagos State for securing its first-ever victory at the NYG and lauded Delta State for successfully hosting the just-concluded edition.
Beyond criticism, SWAN applauded the bold initiatives of sports administrators, including Edo State Sports Commission Chairman, Honourable Amadin Desmond Enabulele; Ogun State Commissioner for Sports, Honourable Wasiu Isiaka; and Nigeria Volleyball Federation President, Engineer Musa Nimrod, for their innovative programs and consistent engagement with the media.
Looking ahead, the body tasked the Enugu State Government with fast-tracking facility upgrades as it prepares to host the 2026 National Sports Festival.
It also called for inclusion of SWAN Chapter Chairmen in the Local Organising Committee, in line with past practices.
On internal matters, SWAN encouraged its members nationwide to renew their registrations, uphold professionalism, embrace gender inclusion in coverage teams, and prepare for the association’s 60th Diamond Jubilee Anniversary scheduled for October 2025.
