By Ijeoma Okigbo
The President, Nigeria Aquatics Federation (NAqF), Lekan Fatodu, has reaffirmed the federation’s commitment to youth development and swimming growth through sustainable programmes.
Fatodu made this known in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on the sidelines of the just-concluded second edition of the “Swim For Life” Swimming Championship in Abuja.
The championship, organised to provide young people with opportunities to participate in swimming was held in honour of the late NAqF President, Chamberlain Dunkwu, who died in March.
The president said the event was a continuation of Dunkwu’s legacy and dream of providing opportunities for young people to participate in swimming and develop their potential through sports.
According to him, the late president’s vision was to ensure that young swimmers had the support needed to develop their skills and contribute meaningfully to society.
“By giving opportunity to these young people, we are not only helping them in sports, it is also taking a place in their academic development and social interaction.
“Participation in swimming also helped young people develop a sense of responsibility and find their place in society.
“We will continue to drive actions and initiatives aimed at making programmes of such nature permanent features of the aquatics sporting calendar,” Fatodu said.
On the development of swimming and the medals won by Nigerian swimmers, Fatodu acknowledged the contributions of parents and other stakeholders.
He noted that swimming was an expensive sport, stressing the need for sustained commitment from government, federations, parents and other stakeholders.
Acoording to the president, the federation’s commitment, reliability and dedication were essential to attracting sponsorship and developing programmes for different categories of swimmers.
NAN reports that no fewer than 100 swimmers registered for the tournament in Abuja. (NAN)
Edited by Joseph Edeh