The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has paid tribute to two prominent figures in Nigerian sports journalism, Oyeniyi Oyeleke and Temisan Okomi, following news of their deaths, describing the loss as a significant blow to both the media industry and the wider sporting community.
In a statement released on Tuesday by SWAN Secretary-General Ikenna Okonkwo, the association’s president, Isaiah Benjamin, expressed shock and sadness at the passing of the two journalists, highlighting their lasting contributions to 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,” Benjamin said.
Okomi, a respected broadcaster, died after a brief illness, according to his employer, Classic FM Nigeria. He had spent more than 12 years at the station, where he rose to the position of Head of Sports, becoming a familiar voice to listeners and a key figure in the station’s sports coverage.
During his career, Okomi also worked with HiTV Nigeria and Lagos Television, building a reputation as a knowledgeable and engaging presenter. His work across multiple platforms helped shape sports broadcasting in Nigeria, earning him recognition among colleagues and audiences alike.
“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,” Benjamin added.
Oyeleke, a former chairman of SWAN’s Lagos chapter, has since been laid to rest in Offa. He worked with both the Nigerian Television Authority and SuperSport, and was widely regarded for his leadership within the association and his commitment to advancing the welfare 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,” Benjamin said.
SWAN noted that both men left a lasting legacy through their dedication to the profession, with their work helping to elevate standards in sports journalism across the country. Their contributions, the association said, extended beyond reporting to mentorship and the strengthening of the media landscape.
The association has called on members of the sporting community to honour their memory by upholding the principles that defined their careers, including professionalism, integrity, and dedication.
As tributes continue to emerge, Oyeleke and Okomi are being remembered not only for their achievements but also for their influence on the next generation of sports journalists in Nigeria.
