The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has been honoured with the Golden Sports Icon Award by the Ondo State chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) for his contributions to sports development.
Speaking after receiving the award in Abuja,Tunji-Ojo commended the leadership of Ondo SWAN for recognising outstanding personalities who have contributed to the growth of sports in Ondo State and Nigeria at large.
He said the association's commitment to documenting and celebrating sporting achievements will help preserve the legacies of individuals whose performances have brought pride and joy to the state and the nation.
The Minister recalled his youthful days when athletes like Adura Olalehin and Seun Ogunkoya dominated the sports scene, expressing optimism that Ondo State would produce more stars of such calibre.
He urged SWAN to sustain its advocacy for policies and initiatives that will drive sports development in Ondo State and across the country.
Earlier, the Chairman of Ondo SWAN, Segun Giwa, lauded the Minister for his support for grassroots sports development, particularly through the organisation of sports festivals across the five zones of the state.
Giwa appealed to the Minister to champion increased investment in the sports sector, noting that sports remains a vital tool for youth development and empowerment.
The award was part of the Ondo @50 Awards organised by the Ondo State chapter of SWAN on September 23 to celebrate athletes, sports administrators, coaches, sponsors, journalists and other stakeholders who have contributed significantly to sports development in the state and Nigeria.
The awards and gala night held at the NMA House, Alagbaka, Akure. The Minister was unable to attend the ceremony due to official engagements.
