The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Cross River State chapter, has commended the state government for its renewed focus on sports development, saying the efforts are yielding results in infrastructure, athlete performance, grassroots competitions and youth engagement.

In a statement signed by its Chairman, Michael Akpang, the association cited the upgrade of the VIP Box at the U.J. Esuene Stadium, Calabar, as one of the notable developments, saying the improvement had restored the facility’s dignity and enhanced its use during sporting events.

SWAN also praised the qualification of the state’s female football team, Pelican Stars, for the Nigeria Women Premier League, describing the feat as evidence of growing investment in women’s football and grassroots talent development.
The association noted that Cross River athletes had recorded improved performances at national and regional competitions, including the Niger Delta Games in Benin City, while competitions such as the Queen’s Cup, Veterans Sports Competition and age-grade tournaments had strengthened talent discovery.

According to SWAN, the state’s hosting of Nigeria Women’s Football League matches has further positioned Calabar on the national sports map, while the events have also contributed to economic activities in the city.
The association recalled the hosting of the 2023 South-South Zonal Elimination Series for the National Youth Games and the MTN Championship, saying such events had reinforced the state’s reputation as a sports hub.

It also highlighted Cross River’s hosting of the National Council on Sports in 2025, describing it as a milestone that strengthened the state’s role in national sports policy discussions.
SWAN said the inclusion of the International Golfers Cup in the annual Carnival Calabar programme had created an opportunity to link sports with tourism and culture, while preparations for the International Agbokim Falls Green Marathon and Calabar Marathon would further promote the state’s tourism potential.

The association equally commended the ongoing process of domesticating the National Sports Policy in the state, saying it would provide a stronger legal and strategic framework for sports development.
While commending the government, SWAN urged it to sustain the momentum through improved funding, better welfare for athletes and coaches, early preparation for national competitions and further rehabilitation of sporting facilities.

The association also called for stronger collaboration among the Ministry of Sports, the state Sports Commission and the media to project the state’s sporting achievements.

SWAN pledged to continue promoting sports in the state while holding administrators and other stakeholders accountable, stressing that sports remained a veritable tool for youth development, unity and economic empowerment.