The Ebonyi state sports council has pledged to collaborate with the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) in developing sports in the state.
The Acting Director of Sports in Ebonyi, Alep David made the pledge on Thursday when the state leadership of SWAN paid him familiarisation visit in Abakaliki.
David said that the sporting successes recorded by the state cannot be mentioned without SWAN’s contribution as his leadership will leverage on such.
“Your contributions in promoting sporting policies and activities in Ebonyi cannot be overlooked and this attests to the attention you presenting receiving from the state government.
“You played critical roles in the resurgence of football in Ebonyi through the Abakaliki Football Club.
“This club shocked the soccer world with a President Federation Cup silver in its year of formation.”
He commended the association for its commitment to promote cricket which has become the sport the state has its highest comparative advantage.
“Cricket is firmly rooted in the state, being the sport which guarantees medals during regional and national sports events.
“Such was the guarantee hockey gave the state in the past but cricket has duly taken over.
“The sports council will collaborate with you to ensure a successful zonal cricket championship which you are planning to organise.”
The State Chairman of SWAN, Ndubuisi Nwogha, appreciated the director for the warm reception, affirming that the association would collaborate his leadership to achieve overall sporting successes.
“We have been duly motivated to work with the sports council in effective reportage of sports in the state.
“We appeal that you expedite action in ensuring that the office allotted to SWAN is given to us immediately.”
A Former state Chairman of SWAN Chukwuemeka Opara who heads the Local Organising Committee for the zonal cricket championship. said it will commence in April.
“We are determined to host the best cricket championship in the state and call for the collaboration of all to ensure its success,.”
The National Financial Secretary of SWAN, Ijeoma Peter- Nwante among other stakeholders attended the visit.
