The management of Blueprint Newspapers has congratulated the Secretary General of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Ambassador Ikenna Okonkwo, on his re-election to the national executive committee of the association.
The management conveyed the congratulatory message when Okonkwo presented his Certificate of Return to the newspaper’s management at the Blueprint Newspapers head office in Abuja on Monday.
Receiving the SWAN Secretary-General, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Blueprint Newspapers, Mallam Salisu Umar, alongside the Editorial Director, Mr Clem Oluwole, and the Head of Audit, Mallam Gambo Abdullahi, in congratulating Okonkwo on his successful re-election.
Blueprint lauds Okonkwo’s leadership
The management described Okonkwo’s re-election as a reflection of the confidence reposed in his leadership, commitment and contribution to the development of sports journalism and the growth of SWAN.
It noted that the position of Secretary General carries significant responsibility in coordinating the activities of the association, strengthening its administrative structures and ensuring effective communication among its members and stakeholders.
The newspaper expressed confidence that Okonkwo, who doubles as the Editor Online of Blueprint.ng Newspapers, would bring his experience, professionalism and commitment to bear in the discharge of his responsibilities during his new tenure.
Re-election follows SWAN national congress
Okonkwo’s re-election followed the 2026 National Triennial Delegates Congress of SWAN held in Kaduna, where delegates elected a new National Executive Council to steer the affairs of the association for the next three years.
The congress returned President Isaiah Benjamin to lead the association, alongside other members of the national executive council who emerged through the electoral process.
The election brought together delegates from across the country and marked the beginning of another three-year administration for the association, which represents sports journalists and media practitioners covering sports across Nigeria.
Salisu Umar, Oluwole, Gambo hail commitment
Speaking during the presentation of his Certificate of Return, the Blueprint management team commended Okonkwo for his commitment to the association and the wider sports journalism profession.
Mallam Salisu Umar congratulated the SWAN Secretary General and expressed confidence in his ability to contribute positively to the development of the association during his new tenure.
The Editorial Director, Mr Clem Oluwole, also joined in celebrating Okonkwo, noting the significance of his return to the national executive council and wishing him success in the discharge of his responsibilities.
Similarly, the Head of Audit, Mallam Gambo Abdullahi, congratulated the SWAN Secretary General and wished him a successful and impactful tenure.
The management urged Okonkwo to remain committed to the ideals of professionalism, unity, accountability and responsible journalism while working with other members of the national executive council to advance the interests of SWAN.
Call for stronger sports journalism
Blueprint Newspapers also stressed the importance of a strong and professional sports media to the development of Nigerian sports.
The management noted that sports journalists have a critical role to play in holding sports administrators accountable, promoting sporting talents, informing the public and drawing attention to issues requiring intervention within the sector.
It expressed the hope that the new SWAN leadership would continue to promote professional standards, capacity development, unity and the welfare of sports journalists across the country.
The newspaper further wished Okonkwo wisdom, good health and greater accomplishments as he begins another tenure in the service of SWAN and the journalism profession.
The management of Blueprint Newspapers congratulated the SWAN Secretary General once again and expressed confidence that his re-election would provide another opportunity for him to contribute to the advancement of sports journalism and the association.
