SWAN Urges Youths to Embrace Peaceful Dialogue Amid National Challenges
ABUJA/Nigeria: The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has called on Nigerians, particularly youths and sports personalities, to embrace peace and dialogue in addressing the country’s challenges rather than resorting to violent protests. This appeal comes ahead of planned protests in various parts of Nigeria on August 1, 2024.
In a statement issued by SWAN President Mr. Isaiah Benjamin, conveyed through the Association’s Secretary-General, Amb. Ikenna Okonkwo, he emphasized that while citizens have the right to protest, such actions should be conducted peacefully. Mr. Benjamin urged protesters to avoid damaging national assets, particularly sports infrastructure, noting that such destruction would only exacerbate existing deficits.
“Previous protests in Nigeria have resulted in significant damage to critical national assets,” Mr. Benjamin stated. “Protesters must be mindful of preserving our sports infrastructure, as any form of destruction will further hinder our progress.”
Mr. Benjamin highlighted the positive impact of sports on the country’s economy and urged citizens to focus on initiatives that promote sports development. “Instead of embarking on the destruction of lives and properties, citizens should reflect on positive and progressive moves aimed at ensuring improved sports development, which has the potential to uplift the country’s economy,” he said.
He further emphasized the role of sports in societal growth, stating, “As the second most economically viable option globally, sports serve as a catalyst for growth and development. Therefore, sportsmen and women, including athletes, officials, administrators, and the sporting media, have the responsibility to lead by example in their conduct and influence in our communities.”
“Instead of joining any bandwagon of destructive tendencies, let us encourage fellow Nigerians to engage in sporting activities, physical exercise, and other areas of gainful endeavors,” he added.
Mr. Benjamin also called on leaders to adopt global standards and legislative measures to implement sustainable policies that remove bureaucratic obstacles and promote sports development. “Nigeria, as a developing nation, should be a fortress for talent discovery and development due to our abundant human capital resources in every community, local government area, and state,” he said.
He stressed the importance of continuous engagement with all stakeholders, including the private sector, which plays a critical role in driving the economy. “There is a need for continuous engagement with all stakeholders to harness and engage them meaningfully. The private sector’s role is critical in this process,” he noted.
Mr. Benjamin also urged the government to invest in grassroots sports infrastructure as a means of engaging young people and reducing unemployment. “The government at all levels should do more in providing sporting infrastructure at the grassroots, as sports, with the right funding approach, has enormous potential to drastically reduce unemployment,” he said.
Concluding his remarks, Mr. Benjamin assured that SWAN is committed to contributing positively to the nation’s sports development. “As professional sports writers, we are ever ready to offer useful contributions and practical steps that will make a meaningful impact,” he affirmed.
