By Sedara Philip
The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) Ekiti State chapter has described as laudable the most recent visit of governor Biodun Oyebanji to the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium in Ado Ekiti.
The Association in a statement signed by the Chairman, Qozeem Oladapo and issued by the Secretary, Bisi Ogunleye said the governor’s visit was clear indication of his commitment to the growth of youth and sports.
This came on the heels of Tuesday, 14th March 2023 unscheduled inspection of the facilities by governor Oyebanji who reportedly promised to fix the roofs of the terraces, blown away by storm.
The body of Sports Journalists also urged the governor to speed up action by directing the immediate fixing of the roofs which had been an eye-sore for long.
SWAN while expressing hope of prompt fulfilment of the promise of the governor to upgrade the Sports Council to a Sports Commission also urged him to look into some other critical departments in the Sports Council that are begging for urgent attention.
It noted that construction of an indoor sports hall was long overdue as previous administrations had promised without fulfilling it.
In the same vein, SWAN urged the governor of Ekiti State to look into the welfare of sportsmen and women who are doing all within their capacities to bring honour and glory to the state at national and international sporting competitions stressing that some of the coaches and athletes are not duly employed while those that are employed do not attend competitions regularly.
With applause, SWAN, Ekiti State noted that BAO has started well and has shown commitment to the development of sports since his assumption of office, nevertheless, he should put genuine, visionary and passionate individuals at the helms of sporting affairs in the state in order to help fulfill his lofty vision and mission for sports especially as regard the proposed Sports Commission.
While expressing confidence in the current administration of the Sports Council , SWAN expressed hope that the Prince Kunle Adeyemi led management will do well in repositioning sports in Ekiti state if accorded deserved government support.
