By Njoku Chijioke
The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), in Ondo State has called on Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to declare a state of emergency on the state’s deteriorating sports facilities.
SWAN expressed concern over the poor condition of infrastructure, which it says is hampering sports development.
The association highlighted the plight of the state’s football team, Sunshine Stars, which travels in an old, unsafe bus, symbolizing the broader neglect of sports infrastructure.
Ahead of the National Sports Festival, SWAN noted that Ondo lacks key training facilities such as artificial tracks, a functional indoor sports hall, and a standard swimming pool.
In June, Governor Aiyedatiwa awarded a renovation contract for the Akure Township Stadium to Reform Sports West Africa.
However, SWAN criticized the lack of progress, stating the stadium remains abandoned three months later.
Responding to these concerns, Saka Ogunleye, Commissioner for Youths and Sports, assured the public that work had begun, including removing the old hockey pitch surface in preparation for laying a new one.
The call underscores the urgency for action to revitalize Ondo’s sports sector and provide athletes with the infrastructure needed for success.
