SWAN @60: Kano Trains Sports Writers to Enhance Professional Capacity
The Kano State chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has organised a capacity building workshop for sports journalists in the state.
The workshop which was aimed at broadening their expertise and deepening professionalism in sports reporting is part of the activities in the build up to the 60th anniversary celebration of the association.
The SWAN Diamond Jubilee and Award Ceremony is scheduled to hold in Abuja from Oct. 29 to Oct. 31.
A Statement by the SWAN @60 Media and Publicity Committee said Ibrahim-Abdullahi Waiya, the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs in Kano State declared the event open.
The Statement quoted Waiya as saying that sports writers were key stakeholders in promoting sports development and awareness through their specialised reporting skills.
He commended SWAN for its commitment to professional growth and assured the association of the state government’s continued support in executing its programmes.
He said the capacity building initiative was timely, considering the growing demand for credible information in the sports industry.
According to him, this aligns perfectly with the vision of Gov. Abba Kabir Yusuf, to strengthen the capacity of professionals across all sectors to enhance service delivery.
“The Ministry of Information and Internal Affairs has prioritised continuous training and retraining of media practitioners in line with the administration’s commitment to improving communication and governance,” he said.
Waiya announced a donation of ₦1 million to the Kano State SWAN in support of its activities including organising workshops and promoting professionalism among its members.
In his welcome address, Zahraddeen Sale, the Chairman of SWAN Kano members to uphold the highest ethical standards and professionalism in their reportage, emphasising that sports journalism plays a vital role in shaping public perception and encouraging youth participation in sports.
The workshop featured presentations on key topics, including:
“Laws and Ethics in Modern Journalism with Focus on Sports Reporting”
“Rules and Regulations on Athletics”
“Laws of Basketball”
Stakeholders at the event called for stronger collaboration between government institutions, media organizations, and sports bodies to advance sports development in Kano State and Nigeria at large.
Among the important sports stakeholders who attended the event were:
Sharif Rabiu Inuwa Ahlan, Chairman, NFF Technical Committee and Kano FA Chairman
Lurwanu Idris Malikawa Garu, SWAN National Ex-Officio (representing the National President)
Ibrahim Shiru Chanji, Chairman, Barau Football Club
Ibrahim Umar Fagge, Acting Chairman, Kano Sports Commission
Alhaji Sabo Eka chairman Jigawa State Football Association
Abubakar Shehu Kwaru, Secretary, Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kano State Council.
Others included representatives from various sports associations, media houses, and government agencies.
