As part of activities marking the 50th anniversary of Ogun State, the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Ogun State chapter, has concluded plans to honour 50 sports icons and corporate organisations for their contributions to sports development in the state over the last five decades.

The Chairman of the Planning Committee, Mr. Razaq Ayinla, disclosed that Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, former world heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua, and world 100 metres record holder Tobi Amusan will headline the list of award recipients.

According to Ayinla, the awards ceremony, one of the flagship events of the Ogun @50 celebrations, is designed to recognise outstanding achievements, long-term commitment, and strategic support for sports and youth development within and beyond the state.

Governor Abiodun is being honoured for his administration’s sustained investment in sports infrastructure, athlete welfare, and the revitalisation of key sporting facilities across Ogun State. Under his leadership, the state has hosted several national and international sporting events, further strengthening its reputation as a major sports hub in Nigeria.

Also among the honourees is former Ogun State governor, Chief Gbenga Daniel, widely regarded as the architect of modern sports development in the state. His tenure laid the foundation for the growth of sports infrastructure and talent development programmes in Ogun.

British-Nigerian boxing star Anthony Joshua, whose roots trace back to Ogun State, will be recognised not only for his global achievements in the ring but also for his inspirational impact on young athletes within the state and across Nigeria.

The Director-General of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, also made the list for his contributions to sports administration and policy formulation, particularly in grassroots sports development and talent discovery.

Traditional institutions will also be celebrated, with the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, set to receive the Royalty Sports Legacy Award for his support for sports, youth empowerment, and community development initiatives.

In the corporate category, Lafarge Africa Plc will be honoured for its consistent corporate social responsibility initiatives and sustained sponsorship of sports and community-based programmes in Ogun State.

Other notable awardees include Chief Segun Patrick Odegbami, Minister of Finance Chief Wale Edun, Sir Kensington Adebukola Adebutu, Kunle Solaja, Barrister Churchill Oliseh, and several others drawn from sports, governance, traditional leadership, corporate organisations, media, and allied sectors.

Ayinla explained that the awards are not merely ceremonial but are intended to encourage sustained investment in sports as a catalyst for social development, unity, and economic growth in Ogun State.

The event is expected to bring together key stakeholders in sports and governance as Ogun State celebrates 50 years of progress and excellence.