The immediate past President of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) Sir Honour Sirawoo, has urged sports writers in the country to always cross check their facts before publishing.
According to him, for a sports writer to be relevant it must depend on his or her quality of story written, adding that every sports writer should improve hence the world is growing fast in terms of technology.
Sirawoo who is also the Permanent Secretary Rivers State Scholarship Board said this on Friday during a one day seminar on Health awareness and new rules in the game of football organised by the SWAN Rivers State chapter, held at the Ernest Ikoli Press Center Moscow Road Port Harcourt.
He explained that most journalists in the country thought journalism is all about writing and speaking grammar, saying that what is expected from a journalist was simple and correct English as its primary functions was to entertain, educate and enlighten people.
‘A lot of people thought that journalism is an environment where they can just come and write grammar and speak big English and go back to their houses and sleep. As a journalist if you must be relevant that will depends on what you can give out to the society in terms of quality reporting.
“Journalism is not a child’s play the way they respect lawyers and doctors that is how journalists should also be respected. Besides, If you manage yourself well you will earn respect.
“The appropriate way to improve is by attending workshops and seminars” he said.
He commended the Chairman of Rivers SWAN Sarah David for organising the seminar, adding that with such seminars the association will be respected.
Earlier Rivers SWAN Chairman David expressed appreciation to Sir  Sirawoo, other special guests and members of the association for attending the event massively.

By: Kiadum Edookor