Sports
SWAN Patron Wants Sports Sector Overhauled
A patron of Sports
Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Rivers State Chapter, Chief Ernest Elochukwu, has called on the federal government to take steps to deregulate all spheres of sports in order for the country to attain its potential in the sector.
Chief Elochukwu, who bared his mind in a chat with sports journalists in his office in Port Harcourt said that for Nigeria to attain success in sports, there should be no sentiments in giving positions to sports administrators but to ensure that round pegs were put in round holes.
According to him, there was nothing to write home about in sports last year, therefore time has come for all to go back to the drawing board, take a bold step to overhaul all sports and start from the grassroots.
He said that Nigeria, with the abundant talents at her disposal as a country should be reckoned with in terms of sports, but regretted that politics and favouritism have cost the nation a lot in the sector. He stated that all those that do not have the interest of the nation, that are still occupying one office or the other should be relieved of their position and new blood injected into the system.
Chief Elochukwu noted that the flashes of success in the past were achieved through systemic build-up and encouragement at the grassroots, where aggressive talent hunt and grooming were given priority.
He stressed that a lot of things have to be deregulated in sports because some government appointees do not have the passion for sports development rather, they are interested in what they would gain personally.
“Let us reposition our sports and plan to achieve with seasoned and qualified sports administrators, our country Nigeria must surely regain its past glory,” he noted.
He added that success in sports is planned for, so we have to take stock and start talent hunt from the grassroots in all spheres of sports.
On the Super Eagles coach, the sports philanthropist said that we should not expect miracles but give them the encouragement and incentives with improved facilities.
Collions Barasemieye
The Bayelsa State government, yesterday, announced that the marathon will be held on Saturday, April 4, 2026.
The inaugural race is owned by the Bayelsa State Government and will be organised by Nilayo Sports Management Limited, a sports management company.
Under the theme “The Reveal,” the race represents a bold unveiling of Bayelsa’s immense human and cultural potential to the international community, inviting the world to witness the resilience, grit, and talent rooted in the heart of the Niger Delta.
According to the organisers, the race will be flagged off at 9:30 a.m., at the Opolo Roundabout, guiding participants through a carefully designed 10-kilometre route that highlights the scenic beauty and vibrant atmosphere of Yenagoa.
The course will culminate at Peace Park Square, where athletes will cross the finish line into a grand celebration of endurance, unity, and community spirit.
To elevate the experience for runners and spectators alike, the finish venue will host a high-energy post-race concert featuring performances from top A-list artistes, blending sport and entertainment in a festival-style atmosphere.
The organisers directed all registered participants to collect their race bibs and kits at the designated Peace Park Square between March 30 and April 3, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily.
The race, according to them, is currently on track for World Athletics accreditation, underscoring the commitment of both the Bayelsa State Government and Nilayo Sports Management Limited to delivering an event that meets the highest global standards.
The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olopade, on Friday continued the Commission’s nationwide appreciation tour with a visit to Abeokuta, where outstanding junior athlete, Majekodunmi Afusat Bisola, was presented with a cheque of N3 million.
The presentation forms part of the NSC’s initiative to recognise and reward exceptional junior athletes who distinguished themselves in 2025 and contributed significantly to Nigeria’s medal haul.
Majekodunmi delivered an impressive run of performances on the track. At the last edition of the National Sports Festival, she stormed to gold in the 400m and the 4x400m relay. She replicated the double triumph at the Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) Junior Championship, in Abeokuta, before emerging as one of the standout stars at the African Youth Games in Luanda, Angola.
Speaking during the presentation, Olopade explained that the Commission deemed it necessary to extend financial appreciation to grassroots athletes after elite performers had earlier received grants running into thousands of dollars.
“A few weeks ago, after paying grants to our elite athletes, we agreed tthere was a need to also appreciate these young, budding talents who made Nigeria proud last year,” he said.
He disclosed that of the 376 medals recorded by Nigerian athletes in 2025, more than 200 were won by grassroots talents, underscoring the importance of sustained investment in youth development.
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