The Ondo State Chapter of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) is set to honour distinguished personalities who have made significant contributions to the development and promotion of sports in the state. The recognition will be given at the Ondo Sports Icon Award of Excellence, scheduled to hold on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, in Akure. This initiative aims to celebrate deserving sports heroes and stakeholders whose contributions may have otherwise gone unrecognised.
The Chairman of SWAN in Ondo State, Segun Giwa, and Chairman of the Awards Committee, Akintunde Akinsemola, disclosed that the event will bring together sports administrators, athletes, sports writers, business leaders, and other stakeholders. They stated that the award is not only about celebrating past achievements but also encouraging continued investment in sports and inspiring a new generation of athletes and sports administrators.
Among those expected to receive the Golden Award are former Governor Olusegun Mimiko, former Chairman of the Nigeria Premier Football League, Gbenga Elegbeleye, and former Deputy-Governor, Ambassador Omolade Oluwateru. These individuals have been recognised for their outstanding contributions to sports development in the state. The award ceremony will provide a platform for stakeholders to appreciate their efforts and dedication.
The event will also honour prominent former athletes and coaches, including Seun Ogunkoya, Adura Olalehin, Odunayo Adekuoroye, Godfrey Oboabona, Joe Aribo, Rasheedat Ajibade, and Lawrence Adegbehingbe. Their achievements in various sports have brought glory to the state, and the award will serve as a form of recognition for their hard work and dedication.
In addition to individuals, organisations such as OSRC Media Group and Ondo State Printing and Publishing Corporation (OSPPC) will be recognised for their contributions to sports development. Educational institutions like Federal University of Technology (FUTA) and Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), will also receive awards for their roles in shaping the state's sporting landscape.
The Ondo Sports Icon Award of Excellence is expected to promote sports development in the state by encouraging continued investment and inspiring a new generation of athletes and sports administrators. The event will provide a platform for stakeholders to network and discuss ways to improve sports in the state. It will also serve as a motivation for others to contribute to sports development.
The award ceremony will take place on September 23, 2026, at Akure, and stakeholders are looking forward to an evening dedicated to celebrating the rich sporting heritage and achievements of Ondo State. The event is expected to be well-attended by sports administrators, athletes, sports writers, business leaders, and other stakeholders who will gather to appreciate the contributions of deserving individuals and organisations.
Key points
- The Ondo State Chapter of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria to honour outstanding contributors to sports development
- The event will bring together sports administrators, athletes, sports writers, business leaders, and other stakeholders
- The award ceremony will promote sports development in the state by encouraging continued investment and inspiring a new generation of athletes and sports administrators
