By; KATO P. LADAN, Kaduna
Sports Writers in Gombe today, May 21, held elected new executive members through consensus to lead the association for the next three years.
During the event, the National President of the association, Mr. Isaiah Benjamin, represented by the Vice President North East Zone, Comrade Ahmed Kagana Amshi, highlighted the association’s commitment to innovation and standardization of operations across states.
Mr. Benjamin emphasized the achievements made by SWAN under the leadership of the current NEC, focusing on professionalism and adherence to statutory provisions.
He mentioned recent improvements to the association’s website and registration procedures to enhance membership regulations and operational efficiency.
Addressing the Gombe State Government, Mr. Benjamin expressed anticipation for SWAN’s active presence in the state and requested permission to organize national events such as Full Council Meetings or NEC meetings to strengthen the association’s footprint in Gombe.
The outgoing chairman, Halilu Mohammed Teli, praised the peaceful conduct of the election and thanked the NUJ leadership under Comrade Sa’idu Bappah Malala and government officials especially the DG Press Affairs Government House, Alhaji Isma’ila Uba Misilli,SSA on Media to his Excellency Suleiman Musa as well as other supporters for standing by SWAN during attempts to disrupt the association’s activities.
He also acknowledged the support of the former Gombe State commissioner of Youth Empowerment,Malam Farouk Yarma for sponsoring one of their Zonal meeting and Merit Award which took place in Gombe as well as other financial and morale support.
The outgoing chairman also thanked Governor Inuwa Yahaya for his relentless support both financially and materially to the association, citing the disbursement of rice palliative to members.
Mr. Teli emphasized the unity and solidarity within SWAN Gombe and encouraged the incoming leadership to uphold the legacy of the association with dedication and commitment. He also highlighted challenges faced by the Gombe chapter, including limited funding and support from sports authorities, and called for stronger partnerships with stakeholders to enhance sports development in the state.
The State Commissioner of Youth and Sports Development, Adamu Inuwa Pantami represented by the Permanent Secretary Mr. Moses D. Shelpidi, assured continued collaboration with SWAN members during ministry events.
Goodwill messages were delivered by various stakeholders, including the State Football Association Mr. Philibus Yakubu Sarma, the Director General of Media and Publicity to His Excellency Alh. Isma’il Uba Misilli represented by the SSA Media Suleiman Musa Arzu, and the NUJ Gombe State chairman represented by his secretary, Alhaji Danjuma Kala.
In his acceptance speech the newly elected chairman Mr. Mark Malele Nuhu commended members for the confidence reposed in him and assured that SWAN Gombe under his leadership will continue to record positive development and growth.
He echoes more support for the association especially from the Government and partners in the State.
Overall, the election and transition of leadership in SWAN Gombe were successful, reflecting a commitment to professionalism, unity, and the promotion of sports journalism in the state.
AUTHENTIC NEWS DAILY 