By: Ahmed Kagana Amshi
Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Gombe State Council on Tuesday, 21st May 2024 elected new executive members through consensus to lead the association for the next three years.
During the event, the National President of the association, Mr. Isaiah Benjamin, represented by the Vice President of North East Zone, Comrade Ahmed Kagana Amshi, highlighted the association’s commitment to innovation and standardization of operations across states.
Mr. Benjamin emphasized the achievements made by SWAN under the leadership of the current NEC, focusing on professionalism and adherence to statutory provisions.
He mentioned recent improvements to the association’s website and registration procedures to enhance membership regulations and operational efficiency.
Addressing the Gombe State Government, Mr. Benjamin expressed anticipation for SWAN’s active presence in the state and requested permission to organize national events such as Full Council Meetings or NEC meetings to strengthen the association’s footprint in the state.
The outgoing chairman, Halilu Mohammed Teli, praised the peaceful conduct of the election and thanked the NUJ leadership under Comrade Sa’idu Malala and government officials especially the DG Press Affairs, Government House, Gombe, Alhaji Isma’ila Uba Misilli, SSA on Media to Governor Inuwa Yahaya, Suleiman Musa Arzu.
He also appreciated supporters for standing by SWAN during attempts to disrupt the association’s activities.
Malala acknowledged the support of the former Gombe State Commissioner of Youth Empowerment, Malam Farouk Yarma for sponsoring one of their Zonal meeting and Merit Awards which took place in Gombe as well as other financial and moral support.
The outgoing chairman further thanked Governor Inuwa Yahaya for his relentless support both financially and materially to the association, citing the disbursement of rice palliative to members.
Mr. Teli emphasized the unity and solidarity within SWAN Gombe and encouraged the incoming leadership to uphold the legacy of the association with dedication and commitment.
He highlighted challenges faced by SWAN Gombe, including limited funding and support from sports authorities, and called for stronger partnerships with stakeholders to enhance sports development in the state.
The State Commissioner of Youth and Sports Development, Adamu Inuwa Pantami represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Modi Shelpidi, assured continued collaboration with SWAN members during the ministry’s events.
Goodwill messages were delivered by various stakeholders, including the State Football Association, Mr. Philibus Yakubu Sarma, the Director General of Media and Publicity to Governor Inuwa, Alh. Isma’il Uba Misilli who was represented by the SSA Media Suleiman Musa Arzu.
Others are the NUJ Chairman of Gombe State Council who was represented by his secretary, Alhaji Danjuma Kala.
Overall, the election and transition of leadership in SWAN Gombe were successful, reflecting a commitment to professionalism, unity, and the promotion of sports journalism in the state.
In his acceptance speech, the newly elected chairman, Mr. Mark Malele commended members for the confidence reposed in him and assured that SWAN Gombe under his leadership will continue to record positive development and growth.
He echoes more support for the association, especially from the Government and partners in the State.
The newly sworn-in exco are Mark Malele, Chairman (Jewel Sports/Sports Presenter Amana Sports), Williams Attah, Secretary (Daily Independent), Esther Lakama, Financial Secretary (Amana Radio) and Rabilu Abubakar, Treasurer (Aminiya/Daily Trust).
