FCC Boss Omidiran Becomes First National Matron of SWAN, Pledges Support for Sports Writers
By Aliyu Oyewole
The Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Hon. Hulayat Motunrayo Omidiran, has been invested as the first National Matron of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN).
The historic investiture was held at Zeecool Hotels, Kaduna, on Thursday, bringing together SWAN’s national leadership, sports journalists, delegates from various state chapters and other distinguished guests.
Speaking after she was formally decorated, Omidiran said she accepted the nomination immediately it was presented to her and personally assured the SWAN National President that she would attend the ceremony.
“The nomination was presented to me at the office a while ago, and I accepted immediately. I promised the president that I would be here for this investiture. That’s why we left Abuja very early in the morning to be here on time,” she said.
The FCC chairman described the honour as both a privilege and a responsibility, noting that her relationship with sports and sports journalism spans nearly three decades.
According to her, her involvement with sports journalism dates back to the period when she established Omidiran Babes about 29 years ago, an experience which brought her into sustained contact with sports writers across Nigeria.
“My journey in sports is almost 30 years now. My love for sports writing dated back to when I formed Omidiran Babes about 29 years ago. And since then, I have been dealing with sports writers in Nigeria,” she said.
Omidiran also recalled that her longstanding relationship with SWAN had earned her several recognitions at both state and national levels, including an award presented to her during the association’s 60th anniversary celebration.
She pledged to use her experience, position and relationships to support the association and contribute to the advancement of sports journalism in Nigeria.
“I will serve the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria to the best of my capability, and I will do everything within my capacity to support the association and contribute to the growth and development of sports journalism in Nigeria,” she assured.
The FCC chairman’s delegation to the ceremony included Federal Commissioners Hon. Eludayo Eluyemi, representing Osun State; Hon. Dr Gloria Nkechi Nnoli, representing Anambra State; Hon. Peter Eze, representing Enugu State; and Hon. Babagida Adamu Gwana, representing Bauchi State.
Her emergence as SWAN’s pioneer National Matron is expected to further strengthen collaboration between the association and key institutions, while promoting the welfare, professionalism and development of sports journalism across the country.
The ceremony was attended by the SWAN National President, former presidents and deputy presidents of the association, members of the national leadership, delegates from various state chapters and other distinguished guests.
