As part of activities marking the 50th anniversary of Ogun State, the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Ogun State Chapter, has announced plans to honour Governor Dapo Abiodun, former world heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua, and other distinguished individuals and corporate organisations for their contributions to sports development and the growth of the state.

The awards ceremony, which is one of the highlight events of the Ogun @50 celebrations, is aimed at recognising outstanding achievements, long-term commitment and strategic support for sports and youth development within and outside the state.

According to the organisers, Governor Abiodun is being honoured for his administration’s sustained investment in sports infrastructure, athlete welfare and the revitalisation of major sporting facilities across Ogun State. Under his leadership, the state has hosted several national and international sporting events, reinforcing its status as a major sports hub in Nigeria.

British-Nigerian boxing star, Anthony Joshua, whose roots trace back to Ogun State, is also among the honourees. He is being celebrated not only for his global achievements in boxing but also for serving as an inspiration to young athletes in Ogun State and across the country.

The Director-General of the National Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade, will receive an award for his contributions to sports administration and policy formulation, particularly in grassroots sports development and talent discovery.

Traditional institutions will also be recognised, as the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, is set to receive an award for his support for sports, youth empowerment and community development initiatives within his domain.

In the corporate category, Lafarge Africa Plc is among the awardees, having been recognised for its consistent corporate social responsibility initiatives and sponsorship of sports and community-based programmes in Ogun State.

Other individuals listed for the awards include Chief Segun Patrick Odegbami, Chief Wale Edun, world record holder Tobiloba Amusan, Sir Kensington Adebukola Adebutu, Kunle Solaja and Barrister Churchill Oliseh, among others.

The award recipients cut across sports, governance, traditional leadership, corporate institutions, media and other sectors that have contributed to sports development and youth engagement in Ogun State.

Speaking on the event, Chairman of the Planning Committee, Mr Razaq Ayinla, Esq., explained that the awards are not merely ceremonial but are intended to encourage sustained support for sports as a tool for social development, unity and economic growth.