SWAN Honours Heartland FC Technical Manager Amuneke, With Prestigious National Award
The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has conferred a prestigious National Award on Heartland FC’s Technical Manager, Emmanuel Amuneke, in recognition of his immense contributions to football development and his enduring impact on Nigerian sports.
The announcement was made in a statement jointly signed by SWAN’s National President, Mr. Isaiah Benjamin, and Secretary-General, Ambassador Ikenna Okonkwo, after a recent press briefing held in Abuja.
According to the statement, the award is part of activities marking SWAN’s 60th Anniversary and celebrates individuals whose leadership, achievements, and influence have significantly advanced sports in Nigeria.
“The conferment is in recognition of the national pride and glory you have brought to your fatherland. Nigerian sports writers owe it to thank you for your dedication and consistent contribution to football development,” the statement read.
Amuneke, a former African Footballer of the Year and one of Nigeria’s most respected football tacticians, has continued to inspire a new generation of players and coaches through his work with Heartland FC and other national assignments.
Reacting to the honour, Amuneke expressed deep appreciation to SWAN for the recognition, describing it as a call to continue serving Nigerian football with greater passion and commitment.
He also extended his appreciation to the management and players of Heartland FC, noting that their collective effort and belief in his vision for the club have been key to their recent progress.
“This honour is not mine alone. It belongs to everyone at Heartland — the management, the players, and our loyal fans. Together, we are rebuilding a club with a proud history and a bright future,” he added.
SWAN, in its statement, highlighted Amuneke’s illustrious career as both player and coach — from scoring Nigeria’s historic Olympic gold medal-winning goal in Atlanta 1996 to grooming young talents who have gone on to represent the country internationally.
The formal presentation of the SWAN Diamond Jubilee National Award will take place at the MKO Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, on Friday, October 31, 2025, at 1 p.m., with top dignitaries from the sporting community expected to attend.
