By Aderonke Ojo
Former FIFA Council member and newly appointed Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission, Hon. Ayo Omidiran, has been honoured with the Distinguished Service Award by the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) for her outstanding support to sports development in the country.
The award, presented as part of SWAN’s 60th Anniversary celebration, recognises Omidiran’s decades-long contribution to Nigerian sports as a legislator, administrator, and philanthropist.
Speaking after receiving the award, Omidiran expressed joy and gratitude to the sports media body for the recognition, describing it as both special and symbolic.
> “I’m very happy and elated. This is not the first award I’m receiving from SWAN, but this one is special because it’s an anniversary award. It’s not easy to clock 60 years as an organisation or even as an individual. I can only wish SWAN greater success in the years ahead,” she said.
The former Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) board member noted that the recognition reinforces her commitment to the advancement of sports in Nigeria.
> “It feels good to be recognised. It’s a show of support for whatever I have been able to do for sports, and I’m grateful to them for this honour,” she added.
Omidiran, who was recently appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission, said it was symbolic that her first public recognition since assuming office came from her “constituency” — the sporting community.
> “This is my constituency. I’m a sportswoman, so it’s not surprising that this is the first award I’m receiving since my appointment,” she said.
The Osun-born administrator also urged philanthropists to continue supporting grassroots sports initiatives, stressing that nurturing young talent remains crucial to the country’s sporting future.
> “Philanthropy is a wonderful way of supporting sports. It doesn’t matter a person’s background — once you help someone participate in sports, they can soar. Every philanthropist should be encouraged to pick and support talents to help them realise their full potential,” Omidiran advised.
Hon. Ayo Omidiran, who served on the NFF board and the FIFA Council, has long been a respected voice in Nigerian sports administration, championing gender inclusion, youth empowerment, and grassroots football development.
Her latest honour by SWAN underscores her enduring impact and continued relevance in Nigeria’s sports ecosystem.