NAqF Hails IOC/NOC Coaching Course As Boost For Nigeria’s Aquatics Future
The Nigeria Aquatics Federation (NAqF) says strengthening the quality of coaches is central to producing athletes capable of competing for medals at major international championships.
The federation made the assessment following the successful completion of the IOC/Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) Olympic Solidarity Level 1 and 2 Aquatics Technical Coaching Course in Lagos.
The week-long programme, held from September 15 at the Mobolaji Johnson Sports Complex, Rowe Park, Yaba, brought together 35 coaches from across Nigeria for intensive technical and practical training.
NAqF President, Hon. Lekan Fatodu, described the programme as a major investment in the future of Nigerian aquatics, saying modern coaching knowledge would help strengthen athlete development from grassroots to elite level.
“The quality of our athletes is closely connected to the quality of the coaches who guide them,” Fatodu said, stressing the need for continuous learning and exposure to international best practices.
He commended the participating coaches for their commitment and willingness to take the knowledge gained back to their clubs, athletes and communities.
Fatodu also thanked NOC President, Engr. Habu Ahmed Gumel, the IOC Olympic Solidarity programme and other stakeholders for supporting the initiative.
He acknowledged the National Sports Commission leadership, Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko and Director General Hon. Bukola Olopade, for supporting efforts to strengthen technical capacity across Nigerian sports.
Course facilitator, Cedric Finch of South Africa, also praised the coaches for their enthusiasm and openness to learning, while NAqF Secretary General, Oriss Taiwo, said the training aligned with the federation’s drive to build a stronger technical base for aquatics.
The federation said it would sustain coach education, grassroots development and strategic partnerships as part of efforts to raise the standard of aquatics and improve Nigeria’s prospects at international competitions.
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