The National leadership of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has constituted and inaugurated the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria Electoral Committee (SWANECO) to usher in a new executive, with a charge to conduct a free, fair and credible election.

At a virtual Full Council meeting held on Thursday, SWAN President, Isaiah Benjamin, said the tenure of the current National Executive Committee will end in July, making it necessary to begin the transition process early to ensure a seamless exercise.

Bajah commended SWAN chapters across the country for their unwavering support and cooperation in the implementation of programmes and activities of the association over the past few years.

He noted that the setting up of SWANECO was in line with the provisions of the association’s constitution and urged members of the committee to discharge their responsibilities without fear or favour.

The Full Council approved the appointment of Hembadoon Orsar, Bisi Ogunleye, Jacob Onjewu Dickson, Bala Bawaji, Chimezie Anaso, Emmanuel Akpan and Bushra Yusuf as members of SWANECO.

Hembadoon Orsar will serve as Chairperson, while Jacob Onjewu Dickson will serve as Secretary of the committee.

In her acceptance speech, Hembadoon Orsar assured members that the committee would organise a free, fair and widely acceptable election in accordance with the constitution of the association.

She appreciated the Benjamin-led administration for the opportunity to serve and pledged the committee’s readiness to justify the confidence reposed in them.

The virtual meeting recorded over 70 per cent attendance, including members of the National Executive Committee (NEC).

Notably, this is the first time in the history of the association that a female member has been appointed as SWANECO Chairperson – a development President Benjamin described as part of renewed efforts towards addressing gender disparity in the association.