The Anambra State Chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) concluded its one week end-of-year event on Friday night with awards of recognition presented to notable individuals in the state.
Among the honorees were Chief Tony Oli, the immediate past Chairman of the Anambra State Sports Development Commission under the Willie Obiano administration, Dr. Chukwudi Njelita, Chief Medical Director of Rock Foundation Hospital, Awka, and Christian Aburime, Press Secretary to Governor Chukwuma Soludo. Other awardees included the Anambra State Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, Chukwudi Oli, and Obinna Ezema.
The award ceremony, chaired by former Commissioner of Information, Dr. Paul Nwosu, featured lectures by Dr. Njelita and Dr. Henry Duru. Dr. Njelita, speaking on “Sudden Death Syndrome, Why Exercise Is Not Enough,” emphasized the importance of health awareness and cautioned against overexertion during exercise, particularly for older individuals.
“You are not an athlete, so don’t push your body like one. Avoid exercises that overstretch your heart. Don’t run, walk”, he advised
He also highlighted the rising prevalence of hypertension among all age groups, stating, “Hypertension is no longer just an old person’s disease. I’ve seen a 17-year-old with high blood pressure. Once it comes, it has no cure—only management with medication.”
Dr. Njelita further explained the impact of diet on health, comparing the processed, sugar-heavy foods consumed in urban areas to the slower-digesting, natural foods of rural dwellers. He urged those over 40 to regularly monitor their blood pressure and sugar levels, as the body’s efficiency declines with age.
He also demonstrated the proper way to handle someone who has collapsed, advising that they should be laid flat to allow oxygen flow to the brain before seeking medical attention.
Dr. Henry Duru from the Mass Communication Department of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, delivered a lecture urging the federal government to prioritize investment in the sports sector as a means of driving economic growth, citing successful models from the Western world.
In his opening remarks, SWAN State Chairman Mr Chimezie Anaso stated that the annual event serves to evaluate the association’s activities, recognize exceptional contributions, and celebrate achievements.
He reaffirmed SWAN’s commitment to rewarding excellence and charting a path for greater accomplishments.
Held at East End Hotels, Awka, the event attracted government officials, medical professionals, sports enthusiasts, and academics. It concluded with lively dancing, as members of the association, their friends, and colleagues celebrated the occasion.
