Discontent is mounting among journalists covering the ongoing 9th National Youth Games in Asaba after reports emerged that host reporters were excluded from a N2 million largesse allegedly released by the Director-General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Chief (Hon.) Bukola Olopade.
The funds were reportedly released after the press conference held on Friday, August 29, 2025, shortly after the opening ceremony. According to sources, the gesture was meant as a token of appreciation to all journalists—both members of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) and non-SWAN practitioners (home-based reporters)—for their coverage of the Games.
Before and during the briefing, there was no indication that the largesse was strictly for registered SWAN members. However, controversy arose when the money was disbursed on Monday, September 1, 2025, at the Media Center of Stephen Keshi International Stadium. While accredited journalists from outside Delta State reportedly received their share, many local reporters who have been covering the event from the outset were sidelined.
Investigations revealed that once the funds were released, the National SWAN allegedly took 10 percent, another 10 percent went to the Delta State chapter, and the balance was shared exclusively among visiting SWAN members—leaving out the host press corps.
The exclusion has sparked outrage among local journalists, who described the development as discriminatory and insulting.
“We have been here from day one, under the sun and rain, filing reports and ensuring nationwide coverage. To be excluded from a gesture that acknowledges our effort is unfair and disrespectful,” one aggrieved reporter said.
Critics argue that the episode raises serious questions about transparency and fairness in how the NSC and SWAN handled the funds. They note that the host journalists, who have carried the heaviest workload in promoting the Games, were the very ones neglected.
Although NSC officials have yet to issue a formal statement, media stakeholders in Delta are urging the Commission to intervene swiftly. Observers warn that such disputes, if left unresolved, could undermine morale and damage relations between the sporting body and the press.
Industry watchers further note that the incident reflects a recurring problem in Nigerian sports administration: token incentives often generate more discord than goodwill when not shared equitably.
When contacted, the four-member sharing committee—which included the National Secretary of SWAN—insisted the largesse was intended strictly for visiting journalists, citing the official accreditation list as justification.
As the Games continue in Asaba, many believe the NSC must urgently rebuild trust with the local press corps to prevent further embarrassment and ensure that journalists—key partners in sports promotion—are treated with fairness and respect.
