The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has called for the partnership and support of Blueprint Newspapers Limited towards the successful hosting of activities marking its 60th anniversary celebration, scheduled to hold on October 29 to 31, 2025 in Abuja.
Leading the delegation to Blueprint’s corporate headquarters in Abuja was the National Secretary of SWAN, Mr. Ikenna Okonkwo, accompanied by members of the SWAN @60 Local Organising Committee (LOC) and executive of the FCT chapter.
Speaking during the visit, Mr. Okonkwo said the Association considered it important to engage its media partners ahead of the diamond jubilee celebration, describing Blueprint as “a credible and patriotic platform that has remained steadfast in promoting sports journalism and national unity.”
“Sixty years is a remarkable milestone for any professional body,” Okonkwo said.
“SWAN has grown through challenges to become the authentic voice of sports journalists in Nigeria. We are proud of our journey, and we want Blueprint to be part of this celebration of excellence.”
He explained that the SWAN @60 celebration, scheduled for October 29–31, 2025, would feature a lineup of events including a national lecture, inter-faith thanksgiving services, an awards and gala night, and recognition of veteran sports journalists who have contributed immensely to the development of sports reporting in Nigeria.
“This anniversary is both a celebration and a reflection,” Okonkwo added. “We’ll be honouring those who laid the foundation and those who continue to sustain the legacy of integrity and passion in sports journalism.”
Also speaking, the SWAN Financial Secretary, Mrs. Ijeoma Peter-Nwante, the Local Organising Committee (LOC) Chairman, Mr. Ben Ogbemudia, and the LOC Secretary, Mr. Anietie Patrick, all expressed appreciation to Blueprint for its long-standing support and partnership with the sports media community.
“Blueprint has been a dependable ally of SWAN,” Mr. Ogbemudia said.
“Your consistent coverage, editorial balance, and commitment to truth have helped shape public perception of sports and sportsmen in Nigeria.”
Responding, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Blueprint Newspapers Limited, Mallam Salisu Umar, commended SWAN for its professionalism and unwavering dedication to ethical sports journalism.
“SWAN has been instrumental in promoting sports at all levels,” Umar stated.
“We at Blueprint identify with your achievements and will continue to partner with you to advance sports development and national cohesion.”
Umar also expressed delight over the recognition of Blueprint’s Senior Editor, Mr. Clem Oluwole, as one of the distinguished honourees of the 60th anniversary celebration.
“We are honoured by this recognition,” he said.
“Mr. Clem Oluwole represents the excellence and dedication that Blueprint stands for. We assure SWAN of our full support and extensive media coverage of the diamond jubilee.”
The SWAN @60 Committee, chaired by Ben Ogbemudia, includes Anietie Patrick (Secretary), Sylvanus Ofekun, Ferdinand Duruoha, Niyi Busari, Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi, Ndubueze Chidoka, Kelechi Onwudiwe, and Chukwunonso Arinzechi as members.
The courtesy visit to Blueprint is one of several strategic engagements by SWAN to mobilise stakeholders, partners, and the media ahead of its diamond jubilee celebration, which promises to be both memorable and impactful.
