SWAN Set to Celebrate Ondo Sports Icons, Stakeholders at Awards
The contributions of athletes, coaches, administrators and institutions to the growth of sports in Ondo State will take centre stage on Wednesday as the State chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) hosts the Ondo Sports Icon Award of Excellence.
The awards ceremony is scheduled to hold on September 23, 2026, at the NMA House, opposite Akure Mall, Alagbaka, Akure.
According to the Ondo SWAN Chairman, Segun Giwa, and Chairman of the Awards Committee, Akintunde Akinsemola, the initiative is designed to recognise personalities and organisations that have made significant contributions to the development and promotion of sports in the state since its creation 50 years ago.
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, among others.
Former athletes and coaches, including Seun Ogunkoya, Adura Olalehin, Odunayo Adekuoroye, Godfrey Oboabona, Joe Aribo, Rasheedat Ajibade and Lawrence Adegbehingbe, are also billed to be honoured for their contributions and achievements in sports.
Institutions and organisations that have played notable roles in shaping the state’s sporting landscape will equally be recognised. They include OSRC Media, Owena Press, the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), and Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA).
The organisers said the awards are not merely intended to celebrate past achievements but also to encourage sustained investment in sports and inspire a new generation of athletes, coaches and sports administrators.
The event is expected to attract sports administrators, athletes, sports writers, business leaders and other stakeholders as Ondo SWAN celebrates individuals and institutions that have contributed to the state’s rich sporting heritage.
