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KANO (Sundiata Post) – The Kano State chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has called on the state government to declare a state of emergency in the sports sector to facilitate comprehensive reforms.
The resolution followed an emergency meeting of the association’s State Executive Committee held on Thursday.
In a statement jointly signed by the chapter’s Chairman, Zaharadeen Saleh, and Secretary, Muhammad Nur, the association described the state of sports in Kano as dire and in need of urgent intervention.
SWAN said the sector had been hampered by inadequate funding, poor infrastructure, outdated governance structures, and a shortage of qualified personnel, especially coaches.
It also decried the lack of private investment and sponsorship, as well as ineffective utilization of available resources, which it said had left athletes and administrators demoralised.
The association said the situation had been further highlighted by the recent death of athletes, coaches and officials who participated in the Gateway Games in Abeokuta, Ogun.
“These individuals served the state with honour and died in active service.
“We call on the state government to immortalise them by naming a major sports facility in their honour and instituting an annual sports event to preserve their legacy,” the statement read.
SWAN also appealed for immediate government support to the families of the deceased, whom it referred to as the “Kano 22,” stating that many of them left behind dependents including children and aged parents.
It urged the state government to consider granting scholarships, educational grants, and financial assistance to alleviate the burden on the bereaved families.
The association further called on the state government to prioritise high-level representation at national sporting events to boost morale among athletes.
On Kano Pillars Football Club, SWAN appealed for urgent action to revitalise the team, describing it as a key institution in the state’s sports development.
While commending the state government for its support to the contingent at the 22nd National Sports Festival, the group urged for sustained efforts towards rebuilding and repositioning the sector.(NAN)
