By Divine Sam
The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Ondo Chapter, has called on Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to urgently declare a state of emergency in the state’s sports sector, citing the declining state of sports infrastructure and the lack of attention to various sports disciplines. The association raised alarms over the deteriorating condition of the Ondo State Sports Complex, which it claims is hindering the preparation of athletes for competitions.
In a statement signed by SWAN Chairman Segun Giwa and Secretary Joseph Adesuyan, the association expressed concern that key sports such as basketball, volleyball, hockey, and handball are suffering from insufficient funding and lack of attention. They also highlighted the plight of the state’s premier football team, Sunshine Stars, which has been forced to play all their matches away from their home ground, the Akure Stadium, due to poor conditions. This, according to SWAN, has contributed to the team’s struggles, including relegation threats in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
The statement also pointed to the lack of basic facilities like an artificial track, a proper indoor sports hall, and a functional swimming pool, all of which are needed to adequately train athletes in preparation for events such as the National Sports Festival. SWAN urged Governor Aiyedatiwa to take immediate action and declare a state of emergency to revitalize the state’s sports infrastructure and ensure the improvement of sporting outcomes in Ondo.
With growing concerns over the future of sports in the state, SWAN has appealed for a swift intervention to restore the state’s competitive edge in various sports.
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