The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has announced plans to honour several veteran sports journalists who have made outstanding contributions to sports reporting and the growth of the association over the past decades.
As part of its 60th Anniversary celebration, SWAN will recognise distinguished members and past leaders for their professionalism, mentorship, and enduring service to the craft of sports journalism in Nigeria.
Among the awardees are Mr. Loveday Herbert, former Sports Editor of New Waves newspaper and past leader of SWAN at both state and regional levels; Mr. Ebi Avi, who served as South-South/South-East Chairman of the association in the 1990s; and Mr. Emeka Iyama, former Abia State Sports Commissioner and Editor-in-Chief of the defunct Sportslink in Lagos.
Others include Alloy Chukwuemeka, popularly known as ACC, a national figure in sports journalism and key supporter of Kwara State SWAN; Mr. Fred Edoreh, a former Lagos State chairman; and Ms. Chigozie Chukwuleta of Anambra State, who has been a consistent voice in sports reporting and development.
The awards will be presented during the SWAN Diamond Jubilee Celebration, scheduled to hold from October 29 to 31, 2025, at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja. The event will culminate in a special Award and Appeal Fund Ceremony on October 31 at the VIP Lounge, Package A of the stadium.
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The announcement was made in a letter signed by the association’s Secretary-General, Ikenna Okonkwo, dated October 13, 2025, and titled “Letter of Recognition – SWAN @60 Veteran Sports Journalist Award.” The letter praised the honourees for their “outstanding contributions, professionalism, and enduring service to the growth and integrity of sports journalism in Nigeria.”
It also described them as “pioneers and pillars” whose dedication and passion have “inspired generations of journalists and enriched the nation’s sporting narrative.”
Reacting to the honour, Mr. Loveday Herbert expressed gratitude to SWAN, describing his inclusion among the honourees as a privilege. “I am honoured to have been selected and greatly appreciate the opportunity to join the distinguished awardees at this Diamond celebration,” he said.
The SWAN @60 celebration is expected to attract leading figures from Nigeria’s sports, media, and corporate sectors, highlighting six decades of the association’s influence in promoting sports journalism and national development.
