*As Wopa vows to propel Nigerian swimming to world stage

The Nigeria Aquatic Federation (NAqF) has officially inaugurated its newly constituted board, marking the beginning of a new era for aquatic sports development in the country.

The inauguration ceremony, held in Abuja, brought together sports administrators, athletes, technical experts, and stakeholders in the aquatic ecosystem, all eager to witness the emergence of a leadership team that promises to elevate Nigeria’s presence in global water sports.

In the keenly anticipated inauguration, Dr. Dunkwu Chamberlain Nnamdi emerged as President of the Federation, securing all available votes in an unopposed election, a testament to the confidence and trust reposed in his leadership and vision.

Dr. Dunkwu, who has been a long-time advocate for grassroots sports development, pledged to reposition the Federation and create more opportunities for young athletes, especially from the riverine communities across Nigeria.

“We are blessed as a nation with enormous aquatic potential, from the riverine areas of the Niger Delta to the lakes and coastlines of the North and West,” Dr. Dunkwu said in his inaugural address.

“Our mission is to harness that natural advantage, nurture the raw talent waiting to be discovered, and attract sponsors who share our dream of making Nigeria a continental and global force in aquatic sports.”

He also emphasized the need for strategic partnerships, capacity building for coaches and officials, and increased participation in international competitions as core objectives of his administration.

Supporting him in the new board is Mr. Abdul-Hassan Magaji, the North West Representative, who was elected 1st Vice President, and Alhaji Adebayo AbdulRasaq Owolabi Agbaji (Wopa) from North Central, who will serve as 2nd Vice President.

Other members of the newly inaugurated board include Mr. Babatunde Fatayi-Williams (International Representative), Pastor Jesimiel Nseobong Samuel (Technical Representative), Mr. Odobeatu Joseph Anayo (South East Representative), Dr. Babatunde Henry Omoyele (South West Representative), and Lt. Comdr. Labake Oriretan (Institutional Representative).

Also on the board are Dr. Suleiman Usman Omeize (NAPHER-SD Representative), Mrs. Yori Florence (NAWIS Representative), Mr. Eric Williams (Athlete Representative) Mrs. Obia Inyengiyekabo Lenienu Affan (Representative Member), Mr. Minabowan Clement Sunday (South South Representative), Mr. Kyari Mohammed Maina (North East Representative) and Mr. Taiwo Oriss (Secretary-General).

The new leadership team, which brings together a blend of administrators, former athletes, and institutional representatives, has been tasked with reviving the country’s aquatic programs, from swimming and diving to water polo and synchronized events.

Stakeholders present at the event lauded the transparent process and expressed optimism that the new board, under Dr. Dunkwu’s leadership, will bring innovation, inclusivity, and renewed energy to the sport.

With Nigeria’s vast network of waterways and a growing pool of untapped talent, the new board’s commitment to developing infrastructure, expanding training programs, and enhancing sponsorship opportunities is expected to lay a strong foundation for the future of aquatic sports in the country.

The inauguration of the Nigeria Aquatic Federation board signals a fresh chapter, one anchored on vision, unity, and the belief that the next generation of aquatic champions will emerge from the nation’s rivers, lakes, and coasts.

Meanwhile, the 2nd Vice President of the Federation, Alhaji Adebayo AbdulRasak Owolabi Agbaji Wopa has expressed excitement on his emergence, even as he added that he was “thrilled, elated and even overwhelmed” by the outpouring of congratulations.

“Huge thanks to everyone who congratulated me on this latest modest attainment,” he stated. Your kind words and support mean the world to me. Be rest assured that I will never take them for granted.”

The new VP has immediately called for collaboration, urging stakeholders to “work together to take Nigerian aquatic sports to new heights of global standard.”