SWAN Appoints Benue Paramount Ruler, Och’Idoma As National Patron 

From Attah Ede, Makurdi 

His Royal Majesty, Agaba’idu Elaigwu Odogbo Obagaji, the Och’Idoma (Paramount Ruler of the Idoma kingdom), has been appointed as  National Patron of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN). 

The Paramount Ruler formally accepted his appointment when the National Executive Committee of SWAN, led by President Isaiah Benjamin, visited him at his palace in Otukpo, Benue State, to present the letter of appointment.

The association urged the royal father to support the association in promoting grassroots sports development and fostering peace through sports.

Receiving the leadership of the Association, the Och’Idoma expressed deep appreciation for the honour to him and commended SWAN for its over six decades of contributions to the promotion of sports, youth development, and national unity since its establishment in 1964.

He described sports as a powerful tool for youth empowerment, social cohesion, and nation-building, acknowledging that the media plays a critical role in shaping values, inspiring excellence, and preserving Nigeria’s sporting heritage.

Agabaidu therefore urged SWAN to further strengthen its advocacy for grassroots sports development, youth mentorship, ethical journalism, and policy reforms that could enhance athlete welfare and sports administration in Nigeria. 

He further seeked closer collaboration between sports journalists and traditional institutions towards mobilizing communities and fostering peace through sports.

“I accept this appointment not merely as an honour, but as a responsibility to support initiatives that promote unity, discipline, and excellence through sports and the media,” His Royal Majesty stated.

Earlier, the SWAN President, Mr. Isaiah Benjamin, said the decision to appoint the Och’Idoma as National Patron was informed by his commitment to peace, youth empowerment, and national development.

 He noted that the Association looked forward to benefiting from the royal father’s wealth of experience, moral authority, and leadership.

A statement by the Secretary to the Idoma Area Traditional Council, Adegbe Uloko, said the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, responsible journalism, and the use of sports as a vehicle for positive social change across the country.