Sports

FCT SWAN Visits Late Albert Akota’s Family, Delivers Financial Support

Published

2 years ago

June 5, 2024

The new executive of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) chapter, on Wednesday, June 5, 2024, paid a condolence visit to the family of the late Albert Akota, the former secretary of the sports writers’ association.

The FCT SWAN delegation, led by Chairman Kelechi Onwudiwe, was graciously received by Mrs. Holiness Onokhiale Akota, the wife of the late Albert Akota, at their residence in Abuja.

While delivering the association’s financial support to the family, Chairman Onwudiwe stated: “Albert Akota was more than just a colleague; he was a mentor and a friend to many of us. His dedication to sports journalism was unparalleled, and his loss is deeply felt by all in the industry. We are here to offer our condolences and support to his family during this difficult time.”

During the condolence visit, the FCT SWAN leadership reiterated their commitment to the welfare of their members, adding that: “Our association is committed to the well-being of our members. We aim to initiate plans that will significantly improve the quality of life for all SWAN members in the FCT.”

Also speaking, erstwhile chairman Chidoka Ndubueze, under whom Albert served as secretary, condoled with the family and made a personal pledge to support the academic success of the deceased’s children.

Reacting to the visit and financial donation, Mrs. Akota expressed heartfelt appreciation for the group’s kind gesture and support to her bereaved family.

The visiting FCT SWAN delegation comprised Chairman Kelechi Onwudiwe, Vice Chairman Victor Okoye, Secretary Samuel Ahmadu, Financial Secretary Niyi Busari, Treasurer JaneFrances Nweze, Assistant Secretary Friday Joshua, as well as former SWANECO representative Modupeola Oyewale and former chairman Ndubueze.

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Sports

Gang James Makes History Despite Second-Place Finish in Abuja Half Marathon

Published

13 mins ago

November 15, 2026

The Gleamer

Cyril Ogar

Ethiopia’s Gemechu Tolosa Daba on Saturday emerged winner of the men’s elite race at the third edition of the PremiumTrust Bank Abuja City International Half Marathon, finishing ahead of Nigeria’s Gang James, who set a new national record.

Tolosa crossed the finish line in an impressive time of 1:01:56 to claim the top prize of $8,000 in the 21km race, while Nigeria’s James finished second in 1:01:58, setting a new Nigerian national record.

James also emerged as the best Nigerian runner, earning $6,000 for his second-place finish in the international category, alongside ₦1.5 million as the winner of the local runners’ category.

Kenya’s Lampard Kingoo finished third in 1:01:59, while compatriot Enos Kipruto came fourth in 1:02:06. Uganda’s Julius Ochieng completed the top five with a time of 1:02:27.

The race, which attracted more than 5,000 participants, started opposite the Federal Fire Service on Mohammed Buhari Way and ended at the Velodrome of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.

Speaking after the race, James expressed delight at setting a new national record in front of his home crowd, describing the achievement as a reward for his hard work and dedication.

“I am very happy to break the National Record. I worked so hard for this moment, and to do it here in Abuja, in front of my people, makes it even more special,” he said.

He added that competing against some of Africa’s finest long-distance runners inspired him to deliver his best performance.

“Running against Gemechu and the Kenyans pushed me to give my best. I knew I had to stay with them till the end. This record is just the beginning for me,” James said.

The third edition of the competition attracted elite athletes from Nigeria, Ethiopia, Kenya and Uganda, among other countries, with about 50 international elite runners participating.

The event, sponsored by PremiumTrust Bank and organised by Nilayo Sports Management, recorded increased international participation compared with previous editions.

The competition offered prizes ranging from $8,000 to $500 for international participants, while Nigerian athletes received cash rewards ranging from ₦50,000 to ₦2 million.

The successful outing further highlighted Abuja’s growing potential as a destination for international road-running competitions, while providing Nigerian athletes with an opportunity to compete against some of the continent’s best long-distance runners.

The colourful event also featured musical performances by Nigerian artistes, entertaining athletes, guests and spectators before, during and after the presentation of prizes to the winners.

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