Sports
Veteran Sports Journalists Need Recognition- Dare Kuti Canvasses
One of the notable Nigeria sports journalists, Dare Kuti, has urged the States and Federal Government of Nigeria to honour veteran sports journalists who have contributed enormously to the growth of the sports industry.
Kuti revealed that the sports journalists who have been reporting sports for over two decades should be considered for special recognition by their respective State governments and Federal Government.
He said, despite the contributions of most veteran sports journalists, they end up being neglected by the sports sector.
Kuti said, “It is high time Nigeria starts recognizing Veteran sports journalists in the industry. I am appealing to the respective state government to honour some of these men who have continued to promote sports in their state.
“For example, we have some respected sports journalists, the likes of Kunle Solaja, Mitchell Obi, Femi Solaja, Godwin Enakhena, Oludare Esan, Gowon Akpodonor, who are doing excellently well in the private sector, but it’s time for them to be incorporated into the state or federal government as an adviser or contractor.
“I have seen and read where the state/Federal Government set up committees on sports policies and individuals with high reputation are included but the journalists who are the image-makers are not carried along.
“For record purposes, we have sports journalists in the country who have sponsored themselves to over 6 AFCONS, 4 Olympics Games and 5 Commonwealth Games but not regarded for their contributions in reporting these events positively”.
“If these veteran sports journalists are not honoured by any of the three tiers of government in Nigeria, what future holds for the upcoming journalists in the country”, Kuti added.
Sports
Dr. Ogunbiyi Emerges New President of Rowing, Canoe and Sailing Federation, Vows Greater Development
Joel Ajayi
Dr. Akin Ogunbiyi on Saturday emerged as the new President of the Nigeria Rowing, Canoe and Sailing Federation, taking over from Rear Admiral Festus Porbeni (rtd).
In an election held at the Media Centre of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, Ogunbiyi polled all 13 votes cast to win unopposed in what stakeholders described as one of the freest and fairest elections in recent times.
Similarly, Mr. Kayode Abulazeez was elected Vice President after securing 13 out of 13 votes.
In his acceptance speech, Dr. Ogunbiyi commended the outgoing president for laying a solid foundation for the Federation.
He noted that under Porbeni’s leadership, Nigeria achieved notable milestones, including participation in Olympic qualifiers.
“Over the last 10 to 15 years, the Federation has gained national recognition through sacrifice and commitment. We must now build on that foundation to take rowing, canoeing, and sailing to the next level,” Ogunbiyi said.
He stressed that infrastructure development and nationwide talent scouting will be top priorities for the new board, adding that Nigeria’s abundant water resources hold great potential for the growth of water sports.
“We will consolidate on what has been achieved and, with the support of government agencies and corporate sponsors, I believe that within one to two years we will witness massive progress in this sport,” he added.
Ogunbiyi also acknowledged the challenge of Nigeria’s poor maintenance culture, promising that the Federation will not only construct new facilities but also maintain existing ones in line with international standards.
He pledged to align with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda in driving sustainable development in the sport.
On his own, the Vice President Kayode Abulazeez, appreciated the delegates for their confidence and stressed that infrastructure remains key to discovering hidden talents across the country.
“Nigeria is blessed with diverse water bodies, and we must make rowing, canoeing, and sailing inclusive sports developed across all regions,” he said.
Speaking also, the Chairman of the Electoral Committee, Mr. Olumide Bamiduro, described the election as seamless and transparent, noting that strict adherence to rules and regulations ensured its credibility.
“This is one of the freest and fairest elections conducted in recent times. My charge to the new board is to work in unity and harmony to move the Federation forward,” Bamiduro stated.
He also commended the management of the National Sports Commission under the leadership of Malam Shehu Dikko, Chairman, and Dr. Bukola Olopade, Secretary-General, for providing the enabling environment for the successful conduct of the polls.
-
Featured6 years agoLampard Names New Chelsea Manager
-
Featured5 years agoFG To Extends Lockdown In FCT, Lagos Ogun states For 7days
-
Featured6 years agoChildren Custody: Court Adjourns Mike Ezuruonye, Wife’s Case To April 7
-
Featured6 years agoNYSC Dismisses Report Of DG’s Plan To Islamize Benue Orientation Camp
-
Featured4 years agoTransfer Saga: How Mikel Obi Refused to compensate me After I Linked Him Worth $4m Deal In Kuwait SC – Okafor
-
Sports3 years ago
TINUBU LAMBAST DELE MOMODU
-
News9 months agoZulu to Super Eagles B team, President Tinubu is happy with you
-
Featured6 years ago
Board urges FG to establish one-stop rehabilitation centres in 6 geopolitical zones
1 Comment