By Our Reporter
The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Anambra State chapter, has commended and honoured the Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Ikioye Orutugu, for his innovative community policing strategies which have contributed significantly to stability in Anambra’s security environment.
CP Orutugu was among prominent personalities recognised at the SWAN end-of-the-year lecture and awards ceremony held in Awka on Saturday night, marking the climax of the 2025 SWAN Week in the state.
Also honoured at the event was Mr Christian Aburime, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Chukwuma Soludo, for his positive engagement with the media and sustained support for sports journalism in Anambra State.
The two-day SWAN Week began with a medical outreach programme for journalists, during which no fewer than 50 media practitioners benefited from free health checks and consultations.
While presenting the award to CP Orutugu, SWAN cited his people-oriented policing approach, enhanced collaboration with communities and stakeholders, and proactive crime-prevention strategies as key factors responsible for the improved sense of security across the state.
Other award recipients included Chief Tony Oli, pioneer Chairman of the Anambra State Sports Development Commission, honoured for his vision and lasting impact on sports development; and Dr Chukwudi Njelita, Chief Medical Director of Rock Foundation Hospital, who was recognised for his public health advocacy crusade.
Chief Obinna Ezema, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Cosmila Suites and Hotel, was honoured for promoting sports within the hospitality sector, while Barrister Chukwudi Oli received recognition for his intervention in sports infrastructure development in his community, Nri, in Anaocha Local Government Area.
Delivering a lecture titled “Sudden Death Phenomenon: Why Fitness Alone is Not Enough,” Dr Njelita urged Nigerians to prioritise regular medical checks, including blood pressure, blood sugar, pulse rate, and oxygen levels. He warned that abnormal readings could trigger serious medical emergencies such as syncope, diabetes, and stroke.
He noted that while blood pressure could be managed, it could not be cured, and advised patients to adhere strictly to prescribed medications. He also encouraged individuals above the age of 40 to take preventive measures against stroke, while cautioning against strenuous physical exercise that could negatively affect heart rate and blood pressure.
In a separate presentation, Dr Henry Duru of the Mass Communication Department, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, called on the Anambra State Government to prioritise sports as a viable economic sector. He described sports as a major industry and image-building tool globally, regretting that the state was yet to fully harness its economic potential.
According to him, sustainable sports development rests on strategic public-private partnerships and purpose-driven infrastructure, noting that the government must transition from being the sole funder to a facilitator and regulator.
Chairman of the occasion, Chief Paul Nwosu, former Commissioner for Information in the state, described the event as highly enlightening and commended SWAN for creating a platform for robust intellectual engagement. He urged the government to view the discussions as constructive feedback and encouraged participants to take their health seriously.
Earlier, the Chairman of SWAN, Anambra State chapter, Chimezie Anaso, congratulated the honourees and charged them to continue contributing to the state’s security and economic growth, particularly through youth empowerment via sports.
Anaso also appreciated partners and supporters of the association, including Rock Foundation Hospital, Awka; the Anambra State Police Command; the Department of State Services, Anambra Command; and the Anambra Beach Soccer Association, for their roles in ensuring the success of the event.
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