BY JULIET EKWENUGO

Kaduna

The management of Blueprint Newspapers has congratulated the Secretary-General of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Ambassador Ikenna Okonkwo, on his re-election to the association’s National Executive Council (NEC).

The management conveyed the message on Monday when Okonkwo presented his Certificate of Return at the newspaper’s headquarters in Abuja.

Receiving the SWAN Secretary-General were the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Blueprint Newspapers, Mallam Salisu Umar; Editorial Director, Mr Clem Oluwole; and Head of Audit, Mallam Gambo Abdullahi.

Umar commended Okonkwo for his commitment to SWAN and the development of sports journalism, saying his re-election reflected the confidence delegates reposed in his leadership and capacity.

He noted that the office of Secretary-General carries significant responsibilities, particularly in coordinating the activities of the association, strengthening its administrative structures and ensuring effective communication among members and stakeholders.

The management expressed confidence that Okonkwo, who is also the Editor Online of Blueprint.ng Newspapers, would bring his experience and professionalism to bear in the discharge of his responsibilities during his new tenure.

Okonkwo’s re-election followed the 2026 National Triennial Delegates Congress of SWAN held in Kaduna, where delegates elected a new National Executive Council to steer the affairs of the association for the next three years.

The congress also returned Isaiah Benjamin as president, alongside other members of the NEC who emerged through the electoral process.

The election brought together delegates from across the country and ushered in a new three-year administration of the association, which represents sports journalists and media practitioners covering sports across Nigeria.

Speaking during the presentation of the Certificate of Return, Umar expressed confidence that Okonkwo would continue to contribute positively to the growth and development of SWAN.

Oluwole and Abdullahi also congratulated the SWAN Secretary-General and wished him a successful tenure.

The management urged Okonkwo to uphold professionalism, unity, accountability and responsible journalism while working with other members of the NEC to advance the interests and welfare of SWAN members.

It further stressed the importance of a strong and professional sports media to the development of Nigerian sports, noting that sports journalists play a vital role in promoting sporting talent, informing the public and holding sports administrators accountable.

The newspaper expressed hope that the new SWAN leadership would sustain efforts towards professional development, unity and improved welfare for sports journalists across the country.

The management wished Okonkwo wisdom and greater accomplishments as he begins another tenure in the service of SWAN and the journalism profession.