The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Nasarawa State Chapter is to organise a Marathon race to boost tourism and revenue generation for the State.
The race is to hold at the Nasarawa Eggon Hill which is one of the tourist attraction sites in the State.
The Chairman of SWAN in the State, Comrade Smah George, disclosed this on Wednesday when members of the association paid a congratulatory visit on the newly appointed Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Barr Labaran Magaji, in Lafia.
The Chairman while congratulating the new SSG for the appointment also lauded his track records of achievements and contributions to the government.
He further informed the SSG of the association’s desire to organize a marathon race at the Nasarawa Eggon Hill which target would be to expose the tourism potentials and consequently attract investors for increased revenue generation of the State.
“We want to use this opportunity to ensure that we stage this marathon race this year.
“The event will attract people from different countries to see the topography of Nasarawa Eggon that has not been harnessed sport-wise”, George said.
The SWAN Chairman also announced plans for a clinic for journalists interested in sports reportage and a seven-a-side SWAN football tournament as well as SWAN Week within the year.
He restated the commitment of SWAN to sports development in the state and gave the assurance that it will continue to promote sports in all facets.
George therefore appealed to the state government to provide the association with mobility support to enhance robust sports reportage across the state.
“We have confidence in you, and we pledge our support to ensure that sports is properly promoted in Nasarawa State”, George added.
Responding, the SSG, Barr Magaji, expressed the state government’s commitment to promoting sports with a focus on engaging youths and generating revenue.
Magaji lauded SWAN’s efforts, particularly in utilising the Nasarawa Eggon Hills for sports activities.
He noted that the initiative aligns with the state government’s policy direction, which focuses on peace and youth engagement.
“One of the areas that can engage a large chunk of the youths is sports. And when they are engaged in that aspect, it reduces their thinking of any form of criminality or restiveness,” Magaji added.
He assured SWAN of the state government’s support, stating that Governor Abdullahi Sule was committed to promoting sports development and youth engagement.
The SSG therefore encouraged SWAN to continue promoting sports in the state, saying that the current government under Gov Sule was transparent and open in its governance.
