*tasks political candidates on grassroots sports development
*hails patron Nimrod
By JACOB ONJEWU DICKSON
As Nigerians welcomed 2023, the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Kaduna State Chapter has expressed optimism that sports in the state would witness several activities, leading to development at the grassroots and discovery of new talents.
A statement signed by Kaduna SWAN Secretary, Okpani Jacob Onjewu Dickson, dated Tuesday January 3, said that such was expressed when some state executive and members, paid a New Year visit to their Chairman, Comrade Isaiah Kemje Benjamin at his residence on January 1.
During the visit, Kaduna SWAN Chairman tasked executive, “to brace up and challenge public spirited individuals, political office seekers and corporate organisations within the state to deliberately invest in sports development at the grassroots.
“Especially candidates seeking vite from electorate, this is the time to partner SWAN and hold competitions that would positively affect respective constituencies.
“SWAN is not partisan, hence we are open to any candidate from any political party, wishing to partner with us in hosting such competitions.
“We believe such candidates can leverage on that to reach out to especially the youth,” he advised.
He added that such competitions should not just be limited to only the electioneering period, but should be continuous, for all those seeking office, whether they emerge or not
Kaduna SWAN Chairman singled out patron of the association, Engineer Musa Nimrod, who is the President of Nigeria Volleyball Federation (NVBF) as well as chairman of Kaduna State Volleyball Association (KADSVA) for exhibiting exemplary leadership in that direction, through deliberate sponsorship of sports not only in the state, but nationally, adding that his gesture is worthy of commendation and emulation.
He congratulated the state for participating at the recently concluded 21st National Sports Festival (NSF) tagged “Asaba 2022” while hailing athletes, coaches and association that earned the state medals.
“The next NSF is just two years away, the time to start preparing is now,” he reminded, while adding that the National Youth Games slated for this year, should also be taken seriously by the Ministry of Sports Development.
