Sports

First of its kind’ — Dare hails FCT SWAN for Easter, Sallah gifts

Published

2 years ago

May 23, 2022

Despite coming under attack in recent weeks, over Nigeria’s withdrawal from participating in international basketball, the minister of Youth and Sports, Sunday Dare has described the industry as one big family.

The minister was on Monday presented bags of rice by the Sports Writer Association of Nigeria (SWAN) FCT chapter, as part of their Easter and Eid-El-Fitr gifts which were also extended to members.

FCT SWAN Chairman, Bunmi Haruna, who was in the company of some members said they see the minister as part of the SWAN family and will continue to support him to succeed in office.

“We don’t have much, but from the little we have as an association, we have come to share with you.

“We know you don’t lack such things, but we see you as part of us and whatever we have we share,” Haruna said.

“We appreciate your huge strides in the sports industry in the last three years and want to let you know we will continue to support you to achieve even more.”

The minister, while responding, described the gesture as the first of its kind.

“This has never happened before and I’m going to tell my wife when I get home.

“This shows we are one big family, I thank SWAN for this gesture.”

The minister also spoke on the withdrawal of Nigerian teams from participating in international basketball for two years.

“The true basketball stakeholders know that the ministry is not the problem, they know where the problem Is,” Dare said.

The SWAN, FCT chapter had last month shared close to 100 bags of rice to members as Easter and Sallah packages.

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Sports

Ibadan Marathon Will Drive Business Growth, Foster Community Spirit, Spotlight Local Talents-Gov Makinde

Published

22 hours ago

September 18, 2024

The Gleamer

Joel Ajayi

Oyo State Governor, His Excellency Seyi Makinde, has emphasized that the Ibadan Marathon will boost local businesses, create jobs, and strengthen community bonds.

He made this statement during a world press conference in Ibadan, where he was represented by the Honourable Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Wosilat Adegoke.

“This initiative not only promotes health and fitness but also supports our local economy while showcasing the beauty of our vibrant city,” he remarked. “The Ibadan Marathon is an opportunity for runners, families, and spectators to unite in celebration of sportsmanship and community spirit. Through this event, we demonstrate our commitment to public health, active lifestyles, and progress.”

The governor further highlighted the marathon’s role in promoting Ibadan’s cultural heritage, attracting visitors from across Nigeria and beyond, and spurring economic growth.

Savvy Events Limited CEO, Miss Arinola Idowu, and franchise owner of the Ibadan Marathon, shared that the 2024 event is designed to celebrate the city’s unity, strength, and rich history, with the theme ‘ERE IDARAYA.’ She emphasized that the event aims to support small businesses, engage youth, and elevate the city’s brand.

The Ibadan Marathon is a joint initiative between the Oyo State Government and Savvy Events to position Oyo State as a hub for sports, commerce, and entertainment, in line with the governor’s agenda for infrastructural development and youth empowerment.

This maiden edition will feature a 42.195km race and a 10km fun run. The routes have been certified by GRADE A measurer Norrie Williamson and World Athletics, offering an exciting journey through Ibadan’s iconic landmarks. Both races will conclude at Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, on Saturday, November 2, starting at 7 am for the marathon and 10 am for the fun run.

Registration is now open at www.ibadanmarathon.com for both the 42.195km full marathon and the 10km fun run.

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