By Victor Okoye
Abuja, Oct. 30, 2025 (NAN) The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has honoured Abuja-based football administrator and philanthropist, Makanjuola Nureni, with its Distinguished Service Award.
The award recognised his outstanding support to SWAN and immense contributions to sports development and journalism in Nigeria.
It was presented during the association’s Diamond Jubilee Celebration, marking 60 years of promoting excellence in sports reporting across the country.
Nureni, founder and owner of Water FC Academy, was celebrated for his decades-long commitment to discovering and nurturing young football talents nationwide.
Through Water FC, he has trained and sponsored several Nigerian players who now feature for national teams and international clubs.
In his remarks, Nureni expressed joy and gratitude to SWAN for the recognition, describing it as a major morale booster.
“I feel happy and fulfilled because we have been doing this for decades, often unnoticed. I thank God that SWAN recognised people like us,” he said.
He described the award as a source of inspiration that would motivate him and his supporters to do more for youth sports.
“This recognition gives me hope and encouragement to invest more in grassroots sports development in Nigeria,” he added.
Nureni commended SWAN for its consistent efforts in celebrating individuals and organisations driving the growth of Nigerian sports.
He urged the association to sustain its commitment to promoting excellence and accountability in sports journalism.
The Diamond Jubilee event, held in Abuja, attracted top figures from the media, sports administration, and government sectors.
It celebrated outstanding personalities whose vision and service have advanced sports and journalism in Nigeria.
Over the years, Makanjuola Nureni Mualá has become a household name in Nigerian football for his passion for talent discovery and empowerment.
His academy, Water FC, has produced numerous players who now represent Nigeria at various levels and play for international clubs.
SWAN’s recognition further cements his reputation as one of Nigeria’s foremost private contributors to sports growth and youth development.(NAN)
