The Ogun State chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has called on the state government to intensify efforts toward the sustainable maintenance of newly built and refurbished sports facilities by fostering public-private partnerships.
This resolution formed part of the communiqué issued at the end of the association’s June congress, held at the refurbished state secretariat in Abeokuta on June 3.
The congress commended the state government for its impressive investment in international-standard sporting infrastructure ahead of the recently concluded National Sports Festival, but emphasised the importance of long-term facility sustainability.
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“SWAN urges the state government to partner with private institutions for the maintenance of sports facilities,” the communiqué read.
According to the body, such partnerships would not only ease the financial burden on the state but also ensure that the multi-million-naira sports complexes remain functional and accessible for future events and athlete development programs.
The MKO Abiola International Stadium, Alake Sports Centre and other venues recently upgraded for the Gateway Games were singled out as valuable assets that must not be allowed to deteriorate due to lack of maintenance or oversight.
The congress also praised the state government for its support in hosting the Games, applauded the turnout of local fans, and congratulated Ogun officials including Sports Commissioner Hon. Wasiu Isiaka and National Sports Commission Director-General Hon. Bukola Olopade.
Other resolutions included calls for grassroots sports development, support for Gateway United FC, and continued hosting of international events such as the recent Super Falcons match at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena.
The communiqué was signed by Hassan Abdulsalam (Chairman), Fatai Sobande (Secretary), and ‘Funmi Sadiq (Member) of the drafting committee.
