SWAN to Honour Yobe Emirs With National Meritorious Service Award
By Muhammad Maitela, Damaturu
The Emirs of Bade, Mai Abubakar Umar Suleiman II, and Machina, Mai Bashir Albishir Bukar Machinama, have been nominated for the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) National Meritorious Service Award.
The Yobe State traditional rulers are being honored for their outstanding contributions to the growth and development of sports in their domains and beyond.
The nomination was announced in a statement issued on Monday by the Media and Publicity Committee of SWAN’s 60th-anniversary celebrations.
The statement, signed by the committee’s chairman, Chimezie Anaso, and Secretary, Hamboodewn Orsa, cited the two Emirs’ exceptional service, dedication, and far-reaching impact on sports development as the reason for their selection.
According to the nomination letter, the Emir of Bade has contributed significantly by playing and sponsoring badminton tournaments at local, national, and international levels.
He has won numerous championships and, as the patron of the Yobe SWAN Chapter, has provided financial assistance to the association and its members.
The letter also highlighted the Emir of Machina’s role in promoting traditional sports such as Langa, Kokowa, and Dambe at various levels.
His commitment is further demonstrated through his dedication to horse riding and displays, as well as hosting and participating in prestigious events.
The awards will be presented to the Emirs and other recipients during the association’s Diamond Jubilee Celebration in Abuja from October 29 to 31.
