The Imo State Commissioner for Information, Public Orientation and Strategy, Chief Declan Emelumba, has described the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) as indispensable to sports development in the state and the nation.
Emelumba said this during a courtesy visit by members of SWAN to his office, where the association reiterated its needs and sought government support for sports journalism in Imo.
“Sports writers are vital stakeholders because sport rules the world,” the commissioner said. “I acknowledge the important role sports journalists play in promoting sports development in Imo State.”
On the prospect of a SWAN secretariat at the Dan Anyiam Stadium, Emelumba said the idea was feasible and that he would raise it with the appropriate authorities.
“Having a secretariat at the stadium is feasible, so we will take it up,” he said, adding that SWAN would be considered whenever welfare packages for journalists are developed.
Emelumba also addressed the Governor’s Media Awards, which he said are currently suspended but promised to revisit the programme.
“If the governor decides to continue the awards, sports will certainly be included,” he said, attributing the omission of sports in the past round to an oversight by the committees.
Praising Heartland Queens, the commissioner commended the team for bringing pride to Imo State and said they deserved recognition from the governor.
“The club made the state proud and should be hosted by the governor. I will see how we can facilitate that meeting and arrange your visit to the governor for further discussions,” he told the visiting members.
Emelumba urged SWAN to submit formal requests to Governor Hope Uzodimma for official consideration and assured the association of his personal support where possible.
In his remarks, Imo SWAN chairman Cosmos Chukwuemeka commended Governor Uzodimma’s administration for its commitment to sports development, noting improvements in welfare for Heartland FC and Heartland Queens, including upward reviews of players’ salaries.
The association celebrated Heartland Queens’ run to the final of the 2026 President Federation Cup, saying the team’s performance brought honour and positive publicity to Imo State.
Although Heartland Queens lost to Nasarawa Amazons on penalties (6-5) after a 1-1 draw, SWAN said the campaign was commendable and would motivate future success.
SWAN also expressed disappointment that Heartland FC had not yet returned to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
The group used the meeting to draw attention to broader challenges facing sports journalism in the state and appealed to the government to prioritise renovation and upgrades to Dan Anyiam Stadium to meet modern standards.