From Dooshima Terkura, Makurdi
Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Benue Chapter, has elected a first female Chairman, Hembadoon Orsar
Orsar, the Correspondent of Leadership Newspapers polled 31 votes to beat Mr Tamenor Kwaghzer, the Publisher of News Echo, who polled 20 votes.
The third contestant for the Chairmanship position, Mr Abraham Ochife, stepped down few minutes after the commencement of the elections
Other officials were elected unopposed including the Vice Chairman, Mr Mathias Udende, Secretary, Mr Terfa Alaghga, Treasurer, Regina Girgi and Financial Secretary, Mr Patrick Omora.
Earlier, the Chairman, Electoral Committee, Mr Terkula Atom, appreciated members for their commitment and the cooperation they received from them while holding sway for the past four months.
In her acceptance speech, Orsar appreciated her colleagues for trusting her and the new officials with their mandate, promising not to betray the confidence that they reposed in them.
She further pledged to champion the promotion of various sporting activities in the state including disability sports as well as prioritize capacity building for members to enhance professional skills.
She also promised to ensure that the association has a befitting office accommodation in order to create a conducive atmosphere for her members to operate.
She was presented with a certificate by the National Secretary, Chief Ikenna Okonkwo.
She and the new executive officers would steer the affairs of the association for the next three year
Meanwhile, the Chairman of Lobi Stars Football Club, Dr. Philip Nongu, has welcomed Hembadoon Orsar’s election as SWAN Chairman, Benue State Chapter, praising her journalistic expertise and experience.
In a statement signed by Uja Emmanuel, Lobi Stars’ Media Head, Nongu noted the timely nature of Orsar’s election, coinciding with Governor Hyacinth Alia’s substantial investments in sports development, particularly Lobi Stars Football Club of Makurdi and the upgrading of Aper Aku Stadium Makurdi to International standard .
He encouraged her to rally SWAN members and showcase the Governor’s accomplishments in sports ,and reports the activities of Lobi Stars Football Club.