Sports journalists, broadcasters, and administrators on Friday, May 1st, gathered at the Media Centre of the National Stadium, Lagos, to honour the late veteran sports broadcaster and former Chairman of the Lagos State chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Niyi Oyeleke.
The Night of Tribute, organised by Lagos SWAN, celebrated the life, career, and contributions of Oyeleke, who died on Tuesday, March 3, 2026.
The event brought together serving and retired sports media practitioners who paid glowing tributes to the late broadcaster and reflected on his enduring impact on sports journalism in Nigeria.
Retired Assistant Director of Sports at the NTA Lagos Network Centre, Chief Paul Ogazi, described Oyeleke as a passionate and dedicated professional who excelled as a reporter, presenter and production manager. Ogazi who inspired Oyeleke’s career in broadcasting, praised his commitment to sports journalism.
Veteran broadcaster Charles Anazodo said Oyeleke treated broadcasting as more than just a profession noting that he approached his work with enthusiasm and a constant desire to improve.
Former NTA colleague, Kanmi-Akere Adeola recalled Oyeleke’s leadership qualities and his willingness to mentor younger professionals. She described him as charismatic and said news of his death came as a shock.
SWAN member Joe Apu, speaking at the event highlighted Oyeleke’s contributions to the association during his tenure as Lagos SWAN chairman, particularly his role in completing the association’s secretariat, regarded as the only SWAN state secretariat owned in Nigeria.
Chairman of the Lagos State Football Association, Gafar Liameed, also condoled with the family and members of Lagos SWAN, describing Oyeleke as a mentor whose contributions to journalism would remain unforgettable.
President of FIBA Africa Zone 3, Col. Samuel Ahmedu (Rtd), praised the late broadcaster as a thorough professional who ensured depth and balance in his reports and remained committed to quality journalism.
Representing the family, Mohamed Ibrahim expressed gratitude to Lagos SWAN for organising what he described as a befitting tribute in honour of his uncle, adding that Oyeleke’s impact on family, friends, and colleagues would continue to be remembered.
Lagos SWAN also acknowledged the support of Nigeria Football Federation President Ibrahim Musa Gusau, former NFF President Amaju Pinnick, and former Lagos FA Chairman and NFF First Vice President, Barrister Seyi Akinwunmi, for contributing to the success of the event.
Oyeleke who hailed from Offa, Kwara State, began his broadcasting career with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Lagos, before later becoming the first Production Manager of SuperSport Nigeria.
