SWAN formally installs ex-Governor Daniel as National Patron

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By Olusola AJIBIKE (Abeokuta)

NIGERIA: FORMER Ogun State Governor, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, has formally been installed as the National Patron of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN).

The formal investiture of Daniel was performed on Thursday at his Sagamu, Ogun State, residence by the National President of SWAN, Honour Sirawo, in company of other national and states officials of the association to coincide with the ex-Governor’s 61st birthday.  Daniel was born on April 6, 1956.

Sirawo, at the event, explained that the choice of Daniel was based on merit, stressing that it was a joint decision by the National Executive Council (NEC)‎ of SWAN.

He said that the choice was arrived at after considering the ex-Governor’s performance in the sports sector during his administration with several numbers of laudable projects recorded in Ogun State.

The SWAN boss told the gathering, which comprises of eminent personalities across the country, that the new National Patron never solicited for the award.

According to him, the award was given to Daniel as a showcase for other leaders to emulate.

“OGD has done so much for the state in job creation, which includes sports facilities available across the state which provides employment for the citizens, particularly the youths,” Sirawo said.

He added: “This award is not solicited by the awardee.  It was the decision of the NEC.  On our own, unsolicited, we decided to appreciate him, so that others would emulate him,” the SWAN boss stressed.

He, however, debunked speculations that there was crisis within the association, declaring that SWAN remains one united family.

Daniel, in his remark, expressed appreciation for considering him worthy of the honor and pledged to give adequate support to the association at all time.

“Let me thank you from the bottom of my heart on the award and be rest assured you that I will contribute positively to the growth and benefits of the association,” Daniel said.

The former Governor stated that he was proud to be associated with SWAN and also encouraged the members to be active in promoting the nation’s sports positively across the globe.

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