Frontline NUJ Presidential Candidate, Alhaji Garba Muhammad, has appreciated the leadership of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), especially Lagos SWAN, for their steadfastness and initiative by the executives in ensuring good partnership with other areas outside their scope and by maintaining effective diplomatic relationship.

According to him, focusing on areas, aside primary responsibilities is a good step in enriching the knowledge and scope necessary for development on part of the professional colleagues.

He went further to assure NUJ members of his readiness to rebrand the union with better ideas and good standards to uplift their lives if elected as NUJ National President.

He encouraged his professional colleagues to always be focused in their dealings and ensure they accomplished their tasks in safeguarding the lives of the downtrodden at all times.

The event packaged by Lagos chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) in partnership with the Foreign Relations Team of Pan African American Chamber of Commerce (PAACC) was the second edition of its Diplomacy, Sports Culture, Sports Tourism, Sports Travels, Sports Security, Food, Health, and Fashion Initiative.

The event, tagged 2024 SWAN Day, took place at Golfview Hotels & Conference Centre in Ikeja, Lagos, and brought together an array of partners from government, private sector, diplomatic community, and high-profile individuals. Notable attendees included delegates from the Ooni of Ife, the President of Gambia, Russia, India, Zambia, and other countries.

The event was a vibrant celebration of cultural diversity, exemplified by the diverse dressings and variety of dances, eulogies, and foods. The rich cultural display was a testament to the power of cultural exchange and understanding.

In her remarks, Ambassador Olatutu Oladunni, Chairman of Lagos SWAN, emphasised the importance of international diplomacy, cultural diversity, and the preservation of cultural heritage. “This year’s edition focuses on promoting mutual respect, understanding, and cultural diversity,” she said.

Grace O. Adegboyega, President of Interguide Academy and CEO of Care Support Service, spoke on food diplomacy, highlighting its role in uniting people across cultures. “Food isone thing that brings everyone together, regardless of their background,” she noted.

Omotunde Bello, Secretary of Lagos SWAN, reiterated the organization’s commitment to using sports as a platform to explore Nigeria’s diversities and promote human development. “There is inter-connectivity of sports with foreign relations, food, and culture sector,” he added.