The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Lagos chapter, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of two distinguished members of the media family, Mr. Wale Ogunniran and Comrade Akinola Michael Ariyo, describing their departures as painful losses to journalism in Nigeria.
Mr. Wale Ogunniran, Publisher/Editor-in-Chief of The Integrity Reporters, passed away on Sunday, December 21, 2025, after a brief illness. He recently marked his 54th birthday on 5 December.
Chairman of Lagos SWAN, Ambassador Olatutu Oladunni (FISN), in a statement signed by the association’s Secretary, Omotunde Bello, said the news of Mr. Ogunniran’s demise came as a rude shock, especially as she had spoken with him only weeks prior and found him in good spirits.
Ambassador Oladunni described him as a committed, reliable, and passionate member of the Lagos sports writing community.
“Since his induction into Lagos SWAN during our 2024 ceremony at the Golfview Hotel & Suites, GRA Ikeja, Mr. Ogunniran proved himself to be a dependable professional who cared deeply about sports journalism. His sudden departure is difficult to comprehend, and he will be greatly missed,” she said.
She extended heartfelt condolences to his family, praying for God to grant them the strength to bear the loss.
The family has announced that a funeral service will hold on Friday, December 26, 2025, by 10 a.m. at Methodist Church, Agodi, Ibadan, followed by interment at Methodist Agodi Cemetery.
Lagos SWAN also paid tribute to the late Comrade Akinola Michael Ariyo, a revered photojournalist and unionist whose contributions spanned decades and touched multiple layers of national leadership.
Born on February 2, 1956, the distinguished media professional passed away on December 3, 2025.
Akinola Ariyo was widely respected for his exemplary career as a veteran photojournalist, serving in highly sensitive national assignments, including: Head, Photography Department under former Heads of State— General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (GCFR) and General Sani Abacha (GCFR). He was also in the national service in the Presidency during the administration of President Olusegun Obasanjo.
He also had media engagements with several state governments including Special Adviser on Photography to the Executive Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, his final official assignment.
He also worked with the New Nigerian Newspaper and was an active contributor to the Photojournalists Association of Nigeria (PJAN).
Known for his integrity, simplicity, and warmth, Comrade Ariyo was admired for his dedication to mentorship, his disciplined work ethic, and his belief in collective leadership. His colleagues remembered him as humble, jovial, generous, and deeply principled.
SWAN Lagos acknowledged him as a rare professional whose lens documented critical national moments and whose service to the media industry will remain unforgettable.
Lagos SWAN described the passing of these two respected professionals as a “double blow,” noting that both men lived for journalism, upheld professional ethics, and left behind legacies worthy of honour.
Ambassador Oladunni extended the association’s condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of the deceased, praying for God’s comfort and for the peaceful repose of their souls.