Nigerian Sports Media in Mourning as SWAN Pays Tribute to Niyi Oyeleke, Temisan Okomi

Nigerian Sports Media in Mourning as SWAN Pays Tribute to Niyi Oyeleke, Temisan Okomi

By Admin 

The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has expressed deep sorrow over the deaths of two respected figures in Nigerian sports journalism, Oyeniyi Oyeleke and Temisan Okomi, describing their passing as a monumental loss to the media industry and the nation’s sporting community.

In a statement issued by the Association's Secretary-General Amb. Ikenna Okonkwo, SWAN President, Mr. Isaiah Benjamin, paid glowing tributes to the late journalists, recounting their immense contributions to the growth and professionalism of sports reporting in Nigeria.

“The deaths of Oyeniyi Oyeleke and Temisan Okomi represent a painful and irreplaceable loss to the Nigerian sports media family. These were men who dedicated their lives to telling the stories of our athletes, leagues, and sporting heroes with passion, integrity, and excellence,” he said.

Temisan Okomi, a seasoned broadcaster, passed away following a brief illness, with his employer, according to his employer, Classic FM Nigeria. 

He spent over 12 years with the station, rising to become Head of Sports.

Okomi’s career spanned multiple platforms, including the now-defunct HiTV Nigeria and Lagos Television, where he built a reputation as a knowledgeable and engaging voice in sports broadcasting.

“Okomi was a consummate professional whose voice resonated across the airwaves and into the hearts of sports fans. His dedication, insight, and mentorship inspired a generation of young broadcasters,” he added.

On the other hand, Oyeniyi Oyeleke, a former Chairman of SWAN Lagos Chapter, passed and has since been laid to rest in Offa, Kwara State. 

A veteran of the Nigerian Television Authority and SuperSport, he was widely respected for his role in strengthening the association and advancing the welfare and unity of sports journalists.

“Oyeleke was not just a journalist but a leader and builder. His tenure as Lagos SWAN Chairman was marked by purposeful leadership, advocacy for professionalism, and unwavering commitment to the development of sports journalism,” the President SWAN said.

The association extended its heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and professional colleagues of the deceased, particularly within the Lagos chapter of SWAN, as well as their respective media organisations.

“We pray that God grants their souls eternal rest and gives their families the strength to bear these irreparable losses. Their legacies will continue to inspire the next generation of Nigerian sports journalists,” he said.

SWAN leadership called on members of the sports community to honour the memories of the departed by upholding the values of professionalism, dedication, and integrity which they exemplified throughout their illustrious careers.