The recently concluded 8th National Youth Games (NYG) at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba, Delta State, revealed a troubling undercurrent of poor treatment towards journalists tasked with covering the event. Despite the vital role media professionals play in amplifying the significance of these games, the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) failed to provide the necessary support to ensure effective coverage. This lack of care was not only a disservice to the hardworking journalists but also a blow to the visibility and promotion of youth sports in Nigeria.
Journalists who attended the event expressed widespread dissatisfaction with the conditions they encountered. Many reported being given nothing more than biscuits and water as their meals while on duty, a gesture that can only be described as demeaning, especially considering the strenuous demands of their work. It is essential to recognize that journalists sacrifice their time and energy to bring important stories to the public, and their treatment during the 8th NYG fell far short of acceptable standards. Their frustration was further compounded by the lack of accommodation provisions, forcing many to fend for themselves in terms of lodging, often at personal expense.
The welfare package—or lack thereof—provided to the media corps was a major point of contention. Journalists were expected to cover the entire event without the basic resources necessary to do their jobs efficiently. This resulted in many journalists being unable to report comprehensively on the games, depriving the public of in-depth coverage of the talents on display. The absence of proper accommodation and sustenance also meant that many media personnel had to cut back on the duration of their stay or coverage, ultimately reducing the visibility of the games across various platforms.
The consequences of such treatment are far-reaching. A lack of proper media representation diminishes the overall prestige of the National Youth Games. These events are meant to showcase young talent, inspire the next generation, and highlight the importance of youth sports in national development. When journalists are not given the tools or support to perform their roles, the ripple effects are felt in every corner. Coverage is often incomplete or lacks the depth necessary to bring attention to the games, athletes, and even the host state’s contributions to youth sports development. The neglect shown to journalists also alienates a broader audience of sports enthusiasts who rely on diverse and reliable sources of information to follow these events.
In light of these failures, it is evident that the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) did not adequately plan for or prioritize the welfare of the media. The allocation meant for media support was clearly mismanaged, leaving journalists struggling in an environment that should have been conducive to their work. This is not just a matter of oversight; it speaks to a deeper issue of organizational incompetence within the LOC. The importance of competent leadership in event organization cannot be overstated, especially in ensuring that every facet of the games—from the athletes to the journalists—is properly cared for.
Additionally, the lack of partnership from private organizations further aggravated the situation. Private organizations could have stepped in to sponsor key aspects of the event, including providing better welfare packages for journalists. Their absence points to a missed opportunity for synergy between the private sector and national sports initiatives, which could have added value to the games and improved the experience for all involved.
Looking ahead to future editions of the National Youth Games, it is imperative that the organizing committee be selected based on competence, experience, and a clear understanding of the importance of media relations. The welfare of journalists should be given serious attention, with adequate accommodations, meals, and resources provided to allow them to perform their duties effectively. Partnership with private organizations should also be encouraged to offer support where the LOC may fall short, ensuring that all parties benefit from the exposure these games generate.
To improve the welfare of journalists and the organization of future events, several recommendations must be considered. First, an official media package, including accommodations, meals, and transportation, should be a standard provision for all accredited journalists covering national events. Second, an open channel for feedback between the media and LOC should be established to address issues as they arise during the event. Third, private partnerships should be aggressively pursued to bolster the financial and material resources necessary to ensure the smooth running of such games.
In conclusion, the poor treatment of journalists at the 8th National Youth Games was a significant misstep by the LOC. Without proper media coverage, the event’s potential was undermined, and the young athletes’ achievements were not given the recognition they deserved. If future editions of the NYG are to succeed in elevating youth sports and promoting national pride, the treatment of journalists must be prioritized, and competent individuals should be entrusted with the organization of the games.
