Trailblazing sports journalist and media entrepreneur, Mrs. Oluchi Tobe-chukwu, fondly known across the sporting landscape as Tobex, has been honoured by the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) with the prestigious Veteran Sports Journalist Award as part of the Association’s Diamond Jubilee Celebration (SWAN @60).
The recognition, formally conveyed in a letter signed by SWAN Secretary-General Ikenna Okonkwo, celebrates Tobex’s outstanding contributions, professionalism, and lifelong commitment to the growth and integrity of sports journalism in Nigeria.
The letter reads in part:
“This honour is in recognition of your outstanding contributions, professionalism, and enduring service to the growth and integrity of sports journalism in Nigeria. Over the years, your commitment, mentorship, and passion for the craft have inspired generations of journalists and enriched the nation’s sporting narrative.”
For more than two decades. Tobex, the immediate former media officer of the Super Falcons, has a formidable force in the sports media space, from breaking barriers as a female journalist in a male-dominated field to mentoring young reporters and advocating for women’s inclusion and visibility in sports. Her voice and vision have consistently amplified the stories of athletes who inspire the nation, particularly women blazing trails in sports.
Beyond her work as a journalist, Tobex, a former vice chairman of Lagos SWAN, has been instrumental in shaping sports communication, media advocacy, and development programs that have empowered emerging talents in the Nigerian sports ecosystem.
Her leadership and influence continue to resonate both locally and internationally.
SWAN described her as “a valued pioneer and pillar of the profession”, noting that the award is a token of appreciation for her sacrifices, excellence, and legacy of fairness and credibility in sports reporting.
The SWAN @60 Veteran Sports Journalist Award will be formally presented during the SWAN Diamond Jubilee Celebration, holding from October 29 to 31, 2025, in Abuja. The highlight of the event, the Award and Appeal Fund Ceremony, is scheduled for October 31, 2025, at the VIP Lounge, Package A, Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.
As SWAN marks 60 years of excellence and advocacy in Nigerian sports journalism, Tobex’s recognition stands as a reminder of the power of perseverance, integrity, and purpose in storytelling, and a well-deserved honour for a woman who has dedicated her career to giving sports the voice it deserves.
