The Deputy Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Austin Nmeregini, has reaffirmed his commitment to the development of sports and the welfare of sports journalists in the state, assuring members of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Abia chapter, of his continued support.
Nmeregini gave the assurance on Monday when a delegation of SWAN, led by its Interim Chairman, Kingsley Okwum, paid him a courtesy visit in Umuahia, Abia State.
Addressing the delegation, the Deputy Speaker pledged to work closely with the association and advocate for its interests, particularly in areas relating to sports administration and government support.
Responding to SWAN’s request for representation on sports boards and greater inclusion in sports-related decision-making, Nmeregini said he would support the involvement of qualified members of the association, noting that the Alex Otti administration prioritises competence and merit.
“His Excellency places a high premium on merit, and I know there are qualified individuals within your association. I will make a case for them and trust that it will yield positive results.
“Whatever support I can offer as Deputy Speaker or as your patron, I am willing to provide. You should regard me as a partner in progress. Anything within my capacity, I will do my best to ensure it is achieved,” he said.
The lawmaker also spoke on his longstanding passion for youth development through sports, revealing that he has personally sponsored several young footballers in pursuit of professional careers abroad.
According to him, two football talents he facilitated to Europe are currently developing their careers, while plans are underway for another promising player to travel later in the year.
“Since assuming office, I have been able to support two young footballers to Europe, where they are continuing their development. Arrangements are also being concluded for another player to make the trip,” he said.
Nmeregini explained that he deliberately kept the identities of the beneficiaries away from public attention to allow them focus on their careers without unnecessary pressure or distractions.
He further disclosed that another player under his mentorship, who recently completed a season with Akwa United, had attracted interest from Nigeria Premier Football League sides Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) and Abia Warriors, while efforts were ongoing to secure a trial opportunity for him in Sweden.
The Deputy Speaker described sports as a powerful tool for youth empowerment, economic advancement and social transformation.
“Sports goes beyond entertainment. It provides opportunities for young people to build careers and positively impact society. Successful athletes often inspire and uplift entire communities,” he noted.
Earlier, SWAN Interim Chairman, Kingsley Okwum, said the association decided to visit the Deputy Speaker in recognition of his contributions to sports development and youth empowerment.
He described Nmeregini as a “silent achiever” whose efforts in supporting young athletes had not received the level of public recognition they deserved.
“We are aware of the number of young talents you have helped off the streets and supported to pursue football careers in Europe. Many of them are doing well in their respective clubs today,” Okwum said.
He appealed to the Deputy Speaker to support efforts aimed at creating opportunities for sports journalists in sports administration and strengthening collaboration between SWAN, the Ministry of Sports and the state government.
Also speaking, a member of the association and broadcaster with Real FM, Imeremba Michael, stressed the need for a closer working relationship between sports journalists and government institutions.
According to him, sports journalists have continued to project a positive image of Abia State through their reports and media engagements and deserve greater recognition and support.
In his vote of thanks, former SWAN Chairman, Sir Vincent Obike, expressed appreciation to the Deputy Speaker for receiving the delegation and for his commitment to supporting the association.
He said the visit marked the beginning of a stronger partnership between SWAN and relevant stakeholders in advancing sports development and improving the welfare of sports journalists in Abia State.
(The Whistler)
