Omidiran appointed SWAN matron, says sports can contribute over 50% of Nigeria’s GDP

By Jude Opara

The Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Hon. Hulayat Motunrayo Omidiran, has revealed that sports if properly harnessed has the potential to contribute more than 50% of Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), this is as she reaffirmed the commitment of the Federal Government’s commitment to reposition the sector as a catalyst for national development and integration.

Omidiran made the remarks on Tuesday when the National Executive Committee of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), led by its President, Mr. Isaiah Benjamin, paid her a courtesy call at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja.

She described sports as one of Nigeria’s greatest instruments for national unity and economic growth, adding that its impact extends far beyond competition.

“Sports is more than entertainment; it keeps communities together, strengthens families and, if properly harnessed, can contribute more than 50% of a nation’s GDP. Nigeria is not there yet, but this administration is genuinely committed to unlocking the immense benefits of a vibrant sporting ecosystem,” Omidiran said.

A major highlight of the visit was the nomination of the FCC Chairman as the first National Matron of SWAN. She described the honour as a privilege, and pledged her unwavering support for the Association.

“I accepted immediately because it is a great honour. I will not be a silent matron. When I am with you, you will know I am with you. The Federal Character Commission will stand with SWAN, and I will support your programmes in every way possible,” the FCC boss assured.

Earlier, SWAN National President, Isaiah Benjamin congratulated Omidiran on her transformative leadership of the Federal Character Commission, noting that her tenure has been marked by institutional reforms, transparency, stakeholder engagement and renewed commitment to equity and fairness.

Benjamin applauded Omidiran’s outstanding contributions to sports administration, particularly her role in advancing women’s sports and inspiring future generations of leaders.

“Since assuming office, Nigerians have witnessed your unwavering commitment to repositioning the Commission through institutional reforms and enhanced transparency. Your leadership has inspired confidence that the FCC is becoming more responsive, innovative and nationally relevant.

“You have consistently demonstrated that sports is not merely about competition but a powerful instrument for leadership, youth empowerment, social inclusion and national development. Your remarkable journey continues to inspire generations of sports administrators, journalists and young Nigerians,” he said.

The SWAN boss further explained that the Association’s decision to nominate Omidiran as its first National Matron was in recognition of her exceptional track records and contributions to sports development, public service and national integration.

“We are confident your acceptance of this honour will further strengthen collaboration between SWAN and the FCC while advancing our shared vision of a united, inclusive and equitable Nigeria through the transformative power of sports,” he added.

Omidiran a former board member of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is expected to be formally decorated during the Association’s National Triennial Congress scheduled for August 2026.