In a bid to foster stronger ties between the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Sports Department and the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), the Director of the FCT Sports Department, Luka Istifanus, has emphasized the importance of media collaboration in elevating sports development.
This was disclosed during a courtesy visit by the SWAN FCT Chapter, led by its Chairman, Kelechi Onwudiwe, to the FCT Sports Department on February 26, 2025.
Istifanus expressed his delight at the visit, noting that the recent resolution of internal disputes within the SWAN FCT Chapter has paved the way for a renewed and robust relationship with the FCT Sports Department.
He acknowledged the critical role of the media in promoting sports and youth development, stating, “I know what the media can do towards elevating an organization, and SWAN represents almost all media outlets. Now that the truce is over, we will ensure regular updates and good reportage.”
The Director highlighted some of the recent achievements of the FCT Sports Department, including its successful Award Night held in January 2025, where a 12-year-old girl from a poor background was awarded about Two million Naira for her outstanding performance in sports. This according to him demonstrates how sports can be a veritable tool for positively engaging and developing youths.
Looking ahead, Istifanus revealed that the FCT Sports Department is intensifying preparations for the forthcoming National Sports Festival scheduled to take place in Abeokuta, Ogun State. He disclosed that 92 athletes are currently participating in the Zonal Qualifiers in Jos, Plateau State, with the possibility of more athletes being added to account for substitutions, injuries, and technicalities. Six sporting activities—football, handball, basketball, beach volleyball, cricket, and abula (a traditional sport)—will feature at the qualifiers.
The Director also expressed optimism about the FCT’s performance at the National Sports Festival, recalling that under his leadership, the FCT achieved a historic 9th-place finish with 15 gold medals at the last edition held in Asaba, Delta State.
“This is the first time the FCT has finished in a single-digit position at a national championship outside the FCT,” he proudly noted.
Istifanus concluded by urging SWAN to maintain its partnership with the FCT Sports Department, emphasizing that sports remain a unifying force across diverse backgrounds.
“Sports is the only business that unites people globally. Together, we can achieve more for the development of sports and youth empowerment in the FCT,” he said.
Speaking earlier, Onwudiwe acknowledged that the visit was long overdue, citing the rift among SWAN members as a major impediment to its relationship with the FCT Sports Department. He assured the Director that such squabbles, now resolved, would no longer hinder their collaboration.
“We are committed to working closely with the FCT Sports Department to promote sports development in the capital,” he said.
The SWAN Chairman also commended the Director for his commitment to sports development and pledged the association’s support in promoting the activities and achievements of the FCT Sports Department.
