SWAN backs Tinubu's reform agenda, demands 10-year development plan
The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has thrown its weight behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s football reform agenda, urging the Federal Government and stakeholders to immediately implement the 10-Year Football Development Plan proposed by the committee headed by former Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President, the late Ibrahim Galadima.
The call was contained in the communiqué issued at the end of SWAN’s 2026 Triennial National Delegates Congress held at Zecool Hotels, Kaduna, from August 26 to 29.
Delegates drawn from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory commended President Tinubu for what they described as his “intentional and audacious call for comprehensive reforms in Nigerian football.”
The Congress also applauded what it described as the “unprecedented prompt release of funds” for local, regional, continental and international championships, stressing that timely funding remained critical to effective preparation and participation.
SWAN declared its full support for the implementation of the 10-Year Football Development Plan, insisting that “there is no better time than now to enforce the recommendations.”
The association urged all stakeholders in Nigerian football to place the long-term development and prosperity of the game above sectional and personal interests.
The sports writers argued that Nigeria’s football development requires a sustained and structured approach rather than short-term interventions, with greater attention to grassroots development, youth pathways, coaching, competitions, infrastructure and administration.
The call comes against the backdrop of recent upheavals in the NFF, following the resignation of the federation’s President, entire Executive Committee and Secretary-General.
SWAN said the current transition presented an opportunity for stakeholders to undertake fundamental reforms capable of restoring stability, accountability and confidence in the administration of Nigerian football.
It urged the NFF Congress, National Sports Commission (NSC) and other stakeholders to approach the reform process with “maturity, patriotism and a collective commitment to the growth and prosperity of Nigerian football.”
The association maintained that consistent implementation of a long-term development plan would be critical to rebuilding Nigeria’s football structures and restoring the country’s status as a major force in world football.
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