In a bid to foster unity among security agencies, the 2024 edition of the ValueJet/SWAN Security Cup, organized by the Ogun State chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), is set to feature at least seven participating agencies.

The event will see these agencies competing for the prestigious trophy, with the tournament kicking off on Thursday.

The defending champion, Police Machine, have been drawn in Group A alongside the Nigeria Customs Service,

 Ogun State Fire Service, and debutants Federal Road Safety Corps. Group B comprises last year’s finalists, the Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Corps (TRACE), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and newcomers, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The draw ceremony, held at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta, was graced by the Ogun State SWAN Chairman, Michael-Azeez Ogunsiji.

 In his address, Ogunsiji emphasized the competition’s goal of promoting unity and friendship among the security outfits. 

He extended his gratitude to ValueJet Airline, the title sponsor of the tournament’s fourth edition, and urged other corporate organizations and philanthropists to support the initiative, ensuring the event’s continued growth.

Uchechi Achomadu, Head of Marketing at ValueJet Nigeria, expressed the airline’s pride in being the official sponsor. 

She announced a cash prize of one million naira for the tournament’s winners and disclosed that branded jerseys would be provided for the four teams that reach the semi-finals. 

Achomadu assured the participating teams of ValueJet Airline’s commitment to the competition’s success.

The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, SWAN, Ogun State Chapter has felicitated the President of Remo Stars Football Club, Hon. Kunle Soname on the occasion of his 58th birthday.

In a statement signed by the State SWAN Secretary, Mr. Olusegun Folarin described Otunba Soname as an architect of modern football management, whose contributions to the sports development had continued to be a reference point across the globe.

The association also acknowledged the exceptional philanthropic gestures of the celebrant to the association’s programmes especially the SWAN Security Cup in the state remained indelible in the history of the state.

“The association rejoices with you Sir on the occasion of your 58th birthday and wishes you the very best in years to come.

“As you celebrate this year, May God Almighty preserve your life to witness more glorious and eventful years ahead, congratulations sir”

SWAN in the state used the occasion of your 58th birthday to reaffirm its determination in the propagation of your success stories in the round leather game.

The Guinness World Record longest-ever chess marathon player, Mr Tunde Onakoya has been honoured by Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun state as the state official sport ambassador.

Tunde Onakoya who played the game of chess for 60 hours at Times Square in New York, United States to set the world record paid a courtesy visit the Gov Dapo Abiodun at his Governor’s office, Oke Mosan Abeokuta in company of his parent.

According to the report from the Governor’s office:

We have received Mr. Tunde Onakoya, a truly remarkable son of the soil who holds the prestigious title of National Master of Chess and the current Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon in history. It is evident why he serves as an inspiration to countless young individuals throughout our great nation.
 
However, Mr. Onakoya’s influence extends far beyond his accomplishments in the world of chess. In his unwavering determination to make a difference, he has established a foundation entitled ‘Chess in Slums Africa’ with a heartfelt mission to share his own story, uplift and motivate underprivileged children, and guide them towards a brighter future outside the boundaries of slums. It is indeed awe-inspiring to witness his relentless dedication.
 
Today, it is our distinct honour to appoint Mr. Tunde Onakoya as the state’s official sports ambassador. Coincidentally, our very own Ogun State is set to host the highly anticipated National Sports Festival in approximately nine months. We are incredibly proud to declare that we aim to orchestrate the most outstanding national sports festival in the history of our beloved country. Interestingly, chess stands as one of the captivating events to be showcased during this incredible occasion.

 
In recognition of Mr. Onakoya’s exceptional contributions, we have unanimously decided to inaugurate the inaugural Ogun State Chess Competition, spanning across every corner of our state. Given his esteemed appointment as our Sports and Chess Ambassador, we entrust Mr. Onakoya to design this prestigious competition, commencing from the grassroots level all the way up to the grand state finale.
 
As the state government, we are thrilled to announce the Tunde Onakoya Prize, a sponsorship dedicated to rewarding the ultimate victor of this exhilarating chess competition. This prize symbolises our deep appreciation for Mr. Onakoya’s unwavering commitment to his craft and his unwavering desire to elevate the realm of chess within our state.
 
Together, we embark on a journey of sporting excellence, unity, and empowerment, firmly guided by the remarkable leadership of Mr. Tunde Onakoya.