The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Anambra State Chapter, has urged Gov. Chukwuma Soludo to provide an Olympic-standard stadium for the state to boost sports development.
The association made the call in a communiqué ion Tuesday, signed by its Chairman, Mr Chimezie Anaso and Secretary, Mr Uche Ndeke.
SWAN also urged the governor to reposition the sports sector and review reward systems for athletes to encourage greater youth participation in sports as a pathway for empowerment.
They commended Soludo for his investments in sports development and the establishment of Solution Football Club.
According to the association, there is the need for government to enhance the club’s visibility, acceptability and marketability.
“SWAN congratulates the governor on his victory in the Nov. 8, 2025 governorship election and urged him to consolidate on achievements that earned his re-election.
“We urge him to deliver more people-oriented projects, particularly in youth development through sports.
“We also reiterate our call for the construction of an Olympic stadium in Awka.
“The previously proposed site for the Awka stadium had been reduced to a football pitch following the development of the Fun City project,”it said.
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SWAN also lauded Tony Nezianya, Public Relations Officer, Nigeria Olympic Committee, and other sports icons from Anambra for their recognition during SWAN’s 60th anniversary celebration held in Abuja in October 2025.
The body called on the state government to organise a reception in honour of the awardees and other sports icons as worthy ambassadors of the state.
It reaffirmed its commitment to neutrality, objectivity and the protection of minority voices in advancing sustainable sports development in the state.
It also commending the national leadership of SWAN under Mr Isaiah Benjamin for its purposeful leadership.
The association observed a one-minute silence in honour of the late Mr Norbert Okonkwo, former Chairman of SWAN, Enugu Chapter, and Media Officer of Rangers International FC, who was buried on Jan. 30.
