The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, SWAN, Ondo State, has expressed concern over the level of neglect of sports associations at the sports council in the state by the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development.

While describing the situation as alarming, SWAN berated the current leadership of the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development in the state for shirking its responsibilities and the inability of sports associations to access their respective budgets.

SWAN claimed the situation has hindered the participation of various sports teams in national and international competitions.

Disclosing this in a communiqué after its congress presided over by the Chairman, Segun Giwa, the sports writers emphasised that the unnecessary dissolution of committees within the sports council has further complicated matters with the associations able to get necessary approvals.

In the communiqué jointly signed by Jacob Akintunde, Olasunkanmi Elujoba and Eniola Olurankinse, who served as Chairman, Secretary and member of the communiqué drafting committee, decried the abandonment of the proposed renovation project of the Akure Stadium, also known as the Ondo State Sports Complex.

According to SWAN, while urging Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to personally visit the Sports Complex to assess the situation, he called for the appointment of a board for the Ondo State Sports Council, similar to the initiative taken for the football agency, stressing that the move would foster comprehensive development across all sports and allow the ministry of sports to concentrate on policy-making rather than day-to-day operational challenges.

“The Congress tasked the board of ODSFA-parents of Sunshine Stars to do everything possible with the current young squad and achieve greatness with the team this current NPFL season.

“They should also ensure Sunshine Queens return to the Elite women’s league with early preparation.

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