The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Ogun State chapter, on Monday named Governor Dapo Abiodun, former world heavyweight boxing champion, Anthony Joshua and Alake Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, HRH Aremu Gbadebo for sports awards.
The recognition became necessary for their contributions to sports development and the growth of the state.
The ceremony is independent of the state government’s lined up activities, marking the golden jubilee of creation of Ogun State.
According to the press statement signed by the association’s secretary, Olusegun Folarin and made available to olusegunolukoga.com.ng; “the award ceremony aimed at recognizing outstanding achievements, long-term commitment, and strategic support for sports and youth development within and outside the state.
The statement further stated that the Director-General of the National Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade, Segun Odegbami, Wale Edun, Tobiloba Amusan, Sir Adebukola Adebutu, Kunle Solaja, and Barr. Churchill Oliseh, as well as several other distinguished individuals and corporate organisations, would also be honoured.
The recipients cut across sports, governance, traditional leadership, corporate institutions, media, and other sectors that have contributed to the development of sports and youth engagement in Ogun State.
In the corporate category, Lafarge Africa Plc is among the awardees, having been recognized for its consistent corporate social responsibility initiatives and sponsorship of sports and community-based programmes in Ogun State.”
According to the organizers, “Governor Abiodun is considered for his administration’s sustained investment in sports infrastructure, athlete welfare, and the revitalization of major sporting facilities across Ogun State.
Under his leadership, the state has hosted several national and international sporting events, reinforcing its status as a major sports hub in Nigeria.
British-Nigerian boxing star, Anthony Joshua, whose roots trace back to Ogun State, is being celebrated not only for his global achievements in boxing but also for serving as an inspiration to young athletes in the state and across the country.” The statement highlighted.
The Chairman of the Planing Committee, Razaq Ayinla, Esq. explained that the awards are not merely ceremonial but are intended to encourage continued support for sports as a tool for social development, unity, and economic growth.
