SWAN @ 60: Joe Akwarandu, Sunny Ogele To Bag Veteran Sports Journalist Awards In Abuja

 

Sir Joe Akwarandu, Comrade Chief Sunny Ogele (JP); two veteran journalists and pioneer members of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Abia Chapter will be honoured with the prestigious SWAN at 60 Veteran Sports Journalist Award on Friday, October 31, 2025 in Abuja. 

According to a letter signed by Ikenna Okonkwo, Secretary-General of SWAN, the two veteran journalists will receive the award for their exemplary contribution to the growth of sports journalism in Nigeria and inspiring the new generation of sports writers. 

"This honour is in recognition of your outstanding contributions, professionalism, and enduring service to the growth and integrity of sports journalism in Nigeria. Over the years, your commitment, mentorship, and passion for the craft have inspired generations of journalists and enriched the nation's sporting narrative. 

"As a valid pioneer and pillar of our profession, this recognition is a token of appreciation for your sacrifices and legacy in promoting excellence, fairness and credibility in sports reporting," SWAN said. 

Sir Joe Akwarandu started his sporting adventure in the 1950s at Basel Mission School, Bisong Abang, Mamfe in the Cameroons where he shone like a million stars in Athletics at a young age. He won both the 100 metres and 200 metres and also anchored the school to 4×400m gold. That special performance earned the school a Victor Ludorum Shield for keeps in 1953. He relocated to Enugu in 1959 and switched to Boxing; and graduated to the regional championship in the featherweight class. 

He embraced journalism in the 70s as a sports writer and joined SWAN early in his career. He has been to many African countries while on duty and has covered local and international tournaments including the World Cup and has won awards in Lagos and Imo State. He was also a member of the Enyimba board in 2003 when the club made history by winning the CAF Champions League.

Together with his colleagues at Concord Newspapers, he laid a solid foundation for SWAN in Lagos State until he left in 1984. He and Comrade Chief Sunny Ogele were pioneer members of Abia SWAN and have paid their dues to sports journalism.

Comrade Chief Sunny Ogele (JP) too comes with a profile worthy of honour. His achievements include; 

Vice Chairman, Abia State Council of the NUJ.

* Employed and worked at the Abia Newspapers and Publishing Corporation; publishers of the National Ambassador Newspapers as a Sports Writer.

* Rose to the position of Sports Editor.

* Treasurer, Abia SWAN.

* Treasurer, National SWAN

* Deputy President, National SWAN.

* Chaired the two past Constitutional Committees for the Review of the SWAN Statute.

* Chairman, SWANECO 2023 that produced the current National leadership of SWAN.

* Served in many Sports Associations and Committees. Prominent among them include:

1.Director and Board member, Enyimba FC, Aba.

2.Member LOC, Publicity; Sub-Commitee, Nigeria '99; Calabar/PH. Sub-Seat;

3.Member, Central Media COJA 2023;

4.Board Member, Nigeria Cycling Federation

5.Member, Abia Handball Association

6.Member, Abia Taekwondo Association;  etc.

The award ceremony will be held at the VIP Lounge, Package A, Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja