By Okechukwu Onuegbu
The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Anambra State Chapter, has re-elected Mr Patrick Anaso and his executive as executive members to steer the affairs of the association for the next three years.
In an election held on Friday, Anaso won unopposed with Mr Uche Ndeke as Secretary during the chapter’s October congress held at Mic Royal Hotels, Awka.
The SWAN Election Committee (SWANECO), comprising Emma Ndukuba as Chairman, Chuks Ugokwe as Secretary, and Dan Ukpai as member, conducted the election where Ms Pamela Eboh emerged as Vice-Chairman.
Others elected were Sir Mmaduabuchi Onwumelu, Assistant Secretary; Mr Marvelous Ezenwa, Treasurer; and Mr Ifeanyi Okonkwo, Welfare Officer.
Speaking after the election, Mr Anaso commended the national leadership of SWAN under President Isaiah Benjamin for its landmark achievements, pledging the Anambra chapter’s continued support and cooperation.
The re-elected chairman also promised to record greater achievements during his second term, while emphasising the need to improve sports facilities across Anambra State.
He expressed dissatisfaction with the standard of facilities at Chuba Ikpeazu Stadium and Godwin Achebe Stadium, stressing the need for modern sports infrastructure, including standard table tennis courts, a swimming pool, and adequate track and field facilities.
Anaso urged members of the association to uphold professionalism in their reportage, warning against scandals, blackmail and other practices capable of undermining the credibility of sports journalism.
He called on sports writers to report responsibly and contribute to the development of sports through ethical and constructive journalism.
Speaking after the inauguration, SWAN Vice-President, South-East Zone, Ikemefuna Asika, commended the executives for their performance during their previous tenure.
Asika urged the newly inaugurated leadership to address identified shortcomings, strengthen the association’s existing achievements and build on its successes.
Similarly, a former member of the SWAN National Executive, Chigozie Chukwuluta, praised the efforts of the outgoing executive over the past three years, expressing confidence that the re-elected leadership would improve on its previous performance.
Chukwuluta wished the new executive greater success, unity and excellence as it begins another three-year term.