Sports writers across Nigeria have been urged to emphasize the unifying power of sports and its potential socio-economic benefits in their reportage.
The Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Reverend Joseph John Hayab, gave the charge on the sidelines of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) @60 Church Service, held at the Supernatural Dominion Bible Ministry International, Gonin Gora, Kaduna.
Reverend Hayab noted that countries such as Jamaica, Kenya, and Ethiopia had reaped immense benefits from significant investments in sports.
He called on Nigerian sports journalists to use their platforms to enlighten the public and advocate for increased government investment in sports development.
According to him, greater investment in sports could help reduce the current security challenges facing the nation, as it would engage the youth positively and harness their potential.
He stressed that nurturing the talents of children and future generations should be a national priority, pointing out that apart from technology, one of the major factors that make great nations stand out is excellence in sports.
Also speaking, SWAN President, Isaiah Benjamin, represented by his Special Assistant on Media, Okpani Jacob Onjewu Dickson, explained that the church service was part of activities lined up to mark SWAN’s 60th anniversary.
He added that the celebration would gain momentum on October 29 in Abuja, with the arrival of full council members from across the country.
Earlier in his sermon, Brother Philip Adejumo of the Supernatural Dominion Bible Ministry International emphasized the importance of faith in human life, reminding the congregation that “nothing was impossible with faith.”
