Nigeria Bets On The Pool: Aquatics Federation Rolls Out Grassroots Swimming Drive For 2026
Nigeria’s swimming future is getting a grassroots reboot as the Nigeria Aquatics Federation (NAqF) unveils a bold 2026 calendar designed to spot talent early and build a sustainable pipeline of champions.
Speaking at a media briefing in Abuja, NAqF President, Chamberlain Dunkwu, announced three youth-focused programmes, Swim to the Future, the maiden Inter-School Swimming Competition, and the National Junior Swimming Championship (Swim for Life).
The initiatives, he said, mark a shift from quick wins to long-term athlete development.
In a show of personal commitment, Dunkwu revealed he will personally sponsor Swim to the Future in Abuja, signalling leadership buy-in for grassroots sport.
The federation also named Thrive Resource Centre as its marketing consultant to strengthen partnerships and secure sustainable funding.
The programmes come on the back of growing global visibility for Nigerian swimmers, including Abduljabar Adama’s recent historic medal at the World Aquatics Junior Championships, proof, NAqF believes, that investment in the base can produce world-class results.
Follow the Savinews Africa channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VawgaEL5vKA9Y5XTFg0n
