The 22nd National Sports Festival, tagged “Gateway Games 2024,” kicked off in Abeokuta, Ogun State, with a vibrant opening ceremony graced by Vice President Kashim Shettima, representing President Bola Tinubu, and other distinguished guests. Isaiah Benjamin, the National President of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), addressed journalists covering the event, emphasizing the importance of professionalism and accuracy in their reporting. While acknowledging that the opening ceremony signified a promising start for the festival, Benjamin encouraged journalists to seek clarification on any unclear issues from the media committee to avoid publishing unsubstantiated reports. He stressed the need for factual reporting that portrays the event in a positive light, while also highlighting the freedom of the press to report objectively. The SWAN president’s address set the tone for responsible and ethical journalism throughout the games.
Benjamin’s call for professionalism extended beyond accurate reporting to encompass the journalists’ conduct and safety. He urged them to maintain a professional demeanor, dress appropriately, and exercise caution in their movements, avoiding unauthorized areas. Prioritizing their safety at all times was underscored as paramount. This emphasis on responsible behavior aligns with the principles of ethical journalism, which extends beyond reporting accuracy to encompass conduct that upholds the integrity of the profession and ensures the safety of journalists. Benjamin’s advice aimed to create a conducive environment for journalists to perform their duties effectively and safely.
The SWAN president outlined the association’s plans to hold its customary convention during the National Sports Festival. This convention serves as a platform to evaluate the sporting event comprehensively and subsequently issue a communiqué summarizing their findings. This practice ensures that SWAN provides a thorough assessment of the festival, offering valuable insights and feedback to organizers and stakeholders. The convention acts as a mechanism for accountability and improvement, contributing to the overall development of the National Sports Festival. The communiqué serves as a record of SWAN’s observations and recommendations, contributing to the ongoing discourse surrounding the event’s organization and impact.
Addressing potential challenges faced by journalists, Benjamin assured them that issues related to accreditation and transportation would be addressed with the relevant authorities. This proactive approach aimed to minimize disruptions and ensure that journalists can perform their duties smoothly. Facilitating access and mobility are crucial for journalists to effectively cover the various events and provide comprehensive reporting. By addressing these logistical concerns, SWAN aimed to empower journalists to focus on their core responsibilities and contribute to the success of the festival’s media coverage.
Kunle Solaja, the Chairman of the Media Committee of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC), echoed Benjamin’s commitment to supporting journalists. He pledged to provide the necessary assistance and resources to ensure they can effectively cover the NSF. This collaborative approach between SWAN and the LOC fosters a positive working environment for journalists, emphasizing the importance of their role in documenting and disseminating information about the festival. The LOC’s commitment to supporting journalists reflects their understanding of the media’s vital role in showcasing the event to a wider audience.
In essence, the opening days of the “Gateway Games 2024” were marked by a call for responsible journalism. Benjamin’s address underscored the importance of professionalism, factual reporting, and ethical conduct. The commitment to addressing logistical challenges and providing necessary support demonstrated a collaborative effort to ensure journalists have the tools and resources to effectively cover the National Sports Festival. This emphasis on media facilitation aimed to enhance the overall quality and reach of the event’s coverage, contributing to its success and legacy. The combined efforts of SWAN and the LOC set a positive precedent for media relations during major sporting events, promoting transparency, accuracy, and a conducive working environment for journalists.
