Rivers SWAN calls for new Sports Ministry leadership, club management overhaul

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By Maxwell Kumoye

 


The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Rivers State Chapter, has called on Governor Sir Siminalayi Fubara to appoint a new leadership for the State Ministry of Sports and restructure the management of the state's top government-owned clubs ahead of the new sporting season.


The resolution was reached during the association's general meeting held on Tuesday at the Ernest Ikoli Press Centre on Moscow Road, Port Harcourt.


Speaking after the meeting, Rivers SWAN Chairman, Cyril Dum Wite, expressed concern over the current state of sports administration in the state, insisting that urgent intervention is needed to halt what he described as a steady decline in the sector.


"Under the present leadership of the ministry, sports are gradually dying, and stakeholders will not allow the situation to worsen," Wite said.


The association also demanded a complete overhaul of the management of Rivers United, Rivers Angels and Rivers Hoopers, arguing that the clubs have failed to produce results commensurate with the level of financial support provided by the Rivers State Government.


According to SWAN, the clubs should be placed in the hands of experienced sports administrators with proven records who can reposition the teams for greater success in the coming season.


Despite its criticism of the current sports administration, the association commended Governor Fubara for his continued investment in sports development across the state.


SWAN highlighted the ongoing renovation of the Yakubu Gowon Stadium, the approval and release of funds for athletes to participate in competitions, as well as cash rewards for outstanding performers, describing them as clear evidence of the governor's commitment to sports.


The association further appealed to Governor Fubara to approve the construction of a befitting SWAN secretariat in Rivers State, suggesting that the facility be named after him as a lasting legacy to his contributions to sports development.





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