The National Leadership of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has felicitated with Muslim faithful across the country on the occasion of Eid el-Maulud, commemorating the birth of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).

The association also called on governments at all levels to increase investment in sports, describing the sector as a powerful instrument for peacebuilding, youth engagement, talent development and national cohesion. Blueprint reports

In a statement issued on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, SWAN President, Mr Isaiah Benjamin, through the association’s Secretary-General, Amb. Ikenna Okonkwo, urged Muslims to use the celebration to reflect on the teachings and exemplary life of Prophet Muhammad, particularly his virtues of peace, justice, compassion, tolerance, humility and love for humanity.

SWAN seeks peaceful coexistence

The SWAN President called on Nigerians to promote peaceful coexistence, mutual respect and understanding irrespective of religious, ethnic or cultural differences.

He said the association remained desirous of seeing Nigeria enjoy lasting peace, security and prosperity, noting that sports could play an important role in strengthening relationships among citizens and promoting national unity.

“As sporting media, it is our desire that Nigeria witness lasting peace, security and prosperity in all facets of its development.

“We are also desirous of sustained investment in grassroots sports, sporting infrastructure, talent discovery and athlete development,” Benjamin said.

Sports key to national cohesion

The SWAN President stressed that sports provides a common platform through which Nigerians from different backgrounds can interact, compete fairly and build lasting bonds.

He therefore called for greater attention to grassroots competitions and school sports, noting that such initiatives could provide young Nigerians with opportunities to develop their talents while keeping them positively engaged.

“As we know, sports provides a common platform where Nigerians from different backgrounds can interact, compete fairly and build lasting bonds.

“Therefore, there is continuous need for greater attention to grassroots competitions and school sports. These can help harness the energy and talents of young Nigerians, while promoting discipline, teamwork, fair play and respect,” he said.

According to him, a deliberate and sustained investment in grassroots sports would not only help Nigeria discover future champions but also contribute to youth development and social stability.

Call for private sector support

Benjamin also encouraged the private sector and other stakeholders to complement government efforts by supporting sporting programmes and initiatives capable of creating opportunities for young people and strengthening social cohesion.

He stressed the need for greater collaboration among governments, sports federations, corporate organisations, schools, communities and other stakeholders to build a sustainable sports development system.

The SWAN President said investment in sporting facilities, competitions, coaching and talent development should be sustained beyond major international tournaments, stressing that a strong grassroots structure remained essential to the growth of Nigerian sports.

Uphold integrity, professionalism

Benjamin further called on members of the sporting community to uphold integrity, professionalism and sportsmanship in their various fields.

He said the values promoted through sports could contribute significantly to building a peaceful, disciplined and united society.

The SWAN leadership maintained that athletes, coaches, administrators, officials and sports journalists all have important roles to play in promoting fairness, discipline, accountability and respect within the sporting ecosystem.

The association extended warm greetings to Muslim athletes, coaches, sports administrators, journalists, officials, supporters and the entire Muslim Ummah on the occasion of Eid el-Maulud.

SWAN urged Nigerians to use the celebration as an opportunity to strengthen bonds of unity and tolerance and to promote values capable of advancing peaceful coexistence across the country.

The association prayed for lasting peace, security and prosperity in Nigeria and for the success and wellbeing of all citizens.