2025 NSF: Teenager takes centre stage, creates upsets in swimming events

Posted : 24 May 2025

Team Oyo has broken an unwanted seven-year medal drought in swimming as 13-year-old swimming sensation Tofunmi Ibidapo secured a silver medal in the 200-metre breaststroke at the Gateway Games Ogun 2024.

Competing at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena in Abeokuta, the 13-year-old impressed spectators with a composed performance, fending off strong challenges from rivals representing Delta and Bayelsa states.

This marks Oyo’s first podium finish in a swimming event since the 2018 National Sports Festival in Abuja.

Thirteen-year-old Tofunmi Ibidapo ended Oyo State’s seven-year swimming medal drought with a stunning performance at the 2024 Gateway Games.

Speaking after her race, the Queen’s School Lagos student revealed that she has been swimming competitively since the age of seven and previously represented Nigeria at the African Swimming Championships in Egypt and the World School Championships in the UK.

“I didn’t win medals at those international events, but they gave me valuable experience,” she said. “Now, I’m more determined than ever to represent Nigeria at the Olympics.”

Accompanied by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ibidapo, the young swimmer also expressed her hope of inspiring fellow Nigerian youth.

“Every competition brings me closer to my dream. I want to show others that age is no barrier when you work hard and believe in yourself.”

Chairman of the Oyo State Aquatic Association, Dr. Akande Babatunde Kazeem, hailed Ibidapo’s achievement as a turning point.

“This medal is well-deserved. I urge all our swimmers to redouble their efforts—success will follow.”

Ibidapo’s silver has not only reignited Oyo’s hopes for a successful festival campaign but also highlighted the bright future of Nigerian swimming.

In a related development, Lagos State’s teenage swimmers are putting up splendid performances at the Games.

While Lagos swimmers have yet to hit the podium, they have displayed immense talent and potential.

Daniella Akanbi completed her leg of the women’s 4x200m freestyle relay at the Gateway Games 2024, representing Lagos State.

Daniella gave it her all as she helped Lagos State finish 6th.

In a move that could significantly impact Nigeria’s swimming future, Lagos State’s teenage swimmers showcased incredible talent at the Gateway Games 2024, a major sporting event that highlights the next generation of athletes.

The Team Lagos performance in the women’s 4x200m freestyle relay made a statement that Lagos is doing something right in grooming its young swimmers.

The four swimmers, all teenagers and still in secondary school, competed against seasoned athletes, finishing 6th with a time of 11:26.28. The quartet—consisting of Daniella Akanbi, Olutise Nedd, Nesomagh Nwizu, and Funmilayo Demehin—may not have secured a medal, but their performance demonstrated potential that shouldn’t be overlooked.

2025 NSF: Teenager takes centre stage, creates upsets in swimming events

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