Gusau, Yakmut, Luka, Others Grace 2023 FCT SWAN Football Final

Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) once again emerged as champions of the FCT SWAN 5-Aside football tournament, defeating the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) and retaining the title for a record sixth time.

The weeklong packed-events were designed to help members of the pen profession unwind and exercise to stay fit. The events commenced on Saturday, November 25th with a walking and jogging exercise at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.

FRCN, who were playing in the final of the football event for the first time, had hoped to win the competition. They wished to give their colleague, Mr. Ndubueze Chidoka, a memorable exit as he would be stepping down soon as FCT SWAN chairman after serving his two term tenures.

But it was NTA that dominated the first half and took a surprise 1-0 lead, much to the dismay of FRCN fans and their new Director General, Dr. Mohammed Bulama. He was well represented by Assistant Director, Sports and Outside Broadcast, Grace Iliya.

Despite their lethargy, FRCN fought back in the second half but NTA held on to their 1-0 lead from the first half and retained the title.

Speaking after the game, President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, commended the Chidoka-led FCT SWAN executive committee for successfully organizing the annual week, which aims to bring members together for relaxation and camaraderie, for over five years.

The Former Director General of the defunct National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Alhassan Yakmut, was the guest speaker at the football final and the award presentation to distinguished Sports Administrators and Veteran Sports Writers.

He stated that active participation in exercise is likely to prevent the dangers associated with stroke.

Yakmut, who spoke on the theme ‘Living Healthy Through Sports’, urged busy sports journalists to create time for exercise.

In his remarks, FCT SWAN Chairman, Mr. Ndubueze Chidoka, commended the mature disposition of teeming members and expressed gratitude to all who have supported the Association in remaining a force to reckon with in the development of sports in the country.

Chidoka emphasized that members should give peace a chance in the spirit of moving the Association forward.

Several veteran members of SWAN were honored at the event, including Asulimen Osasuyi, Tony Ezimako, Richard Jideaka, Andrew Abbah, and Patrick Ngwogu, among others.