*A cross-section of the sports journalists, displaying their bags after the donation.

Journalists

Abeokuta, May 17, 2025  (CrestNewsOnline) Shuaib Salisu, the Senator representing Ogun Central in the National Aseembly, on Friday donated working tools to members of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) in the state ahead of the 2024 National Sports Festival (NSF).

Some of the items donated include a bag, photographer’s jacket, water bottle, power bank, flash drive and writing pad.

While speaking after the donation, Salisu emphasised the importance of journalism to the state and its historic role in Nigeria’s media evolution.

He said the gesture was part of efforts to help journalists deliver a world-class media coverage of the NSF and promote sports development in the state.

“This is the home of sports legends, such as Falilat Ogunkoya, Segun Odegbami and Muda Lawal.

“So, when a programme of this nature is hosted in our state capital, the least I can do as a Senator is to support the journalism practice,” the Senator said.

“Journalism started in 1859 right here in Abeokuta, and not just in Nigeria but in West Africa. As a worthy ambassador of that legacy, I will always support anything that promotes and enhances the profession.”

Salisu, who is the Chairman, Senate Committee on ICT and Cyber Security, added that his gesture was not only to empower journalists but also to show support to the state government under Gov. Dapo Abiodun.

He said: “I’m here to support the state government, and I must come back once in a while to support the wonderful job the governor is doing.

In his remarks, the Chairman of SWAN in Ogun, Michael Ogunsiji, commended Senator Salisu’s gesture, describing him as “a rare politician” who has kept his promise  to support sports journalists during the festival.

“When I met him late last year, he assured me of his support. He didn’t wait for a formal invitation.

”He walked into our Secretariat unannounced and fulfilled his promise. We are grateful,” he said.

Ogunsiji also commended the ongoing support to his Association from the Abiodun-led administration, noting that the SWAN Secretariat at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena was currently being upgraded by the state government.

He appealed to the Senator for continued support in equipping the SWAN Secretariat to serve as a befitting workspace for members.

Ogunsiji also charged Ogun athletes to uphold the state’s sporting heritage and aim for a top-three finish at the festival.

The 2024 NSF tagged “Gateway Games” will officially begin on Sunday with athletes from different parts of the country competing.

(www.crestnewsonline.ng)