12th CNS National Swimming Championship: Delta Swimmers Shine as Event Concludes

Posted : 19 July 2025

The curtain has officially fallen on the 12th edition of the Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) National Open Swimming Championship, which concluded at the Stephen Keshi Stadium Swimming Arena in Asaba, Delta State.

The five-day competition brought together swimmers from across Nigeria—representing clubs, states, and organizations—in a spirited contest that highlighted the nation’s growing prowess in aquatic sports.

Declaring the championship closed, Rear Admiral Yusuf Sani Idris, Director of Sports at the Nigerian Navy and representative of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, expressed deep satisfaction with the smooth conduct and success of the tournament.

“We have participated in competitive national swimming events over the last five days, and I am pleased with the performance of all participants and officials. No adverse incidents were recorded, and the officiating adhered to global best practices,” he said.

Rear Admiral Idris also extended his appreciation to the Nigeria Aquatic Federation, medical teams, volunteers, and support staff for their unwavering contributions to the championship's success.

Chinonye Daphne Aliyu, President of the Nigeria Aquatic Federation, described the event as “the most encapsulating aquatic competition in Nigeria,” emphasizing its strategic importance in preparing athletes for the 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Senegal.

“This year, we featured both junior and senior categories. Our goal is to begin grooming these young athletes now for podium finishes at international events,” she said. She further praised President Bola Tinubu’s youth-focused vision and commended the National Sports Commission for its continuous support of talent discovery and development.

Christine Jobome Emetulu, speaking on behalf of the wife of the Delta State Governor, Deaconess Tobore Sheriff Oborevwori, applauded Delta State's contribution to sports development.

“Delta State is known for excellence in sports. It is peaceful, investment-friendly, and committed to development. Hosting the CNS Swimming Championship is a proud moment for us,” she noted.

She reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to collaborating with sports organizations to host similar events and enhance youth participation in sports.

With record-breaking performances and the emergence of standout swimmers—some as young as six years old—the 2025 CNS Championship has solidified its reputation as a vital platform for talent identification and development.

Stakeholders are now focused on sustaining this momentum through year-round training, international exposure, and robust grassroots initiatives.

Dignitaries present at the closing ceremony included Commodore A.A. Zubairu, Commander, Nigerian Navy Ship Delta; Mrs. Emouba Egabase, Director General, Delta State Sports Commission; Mrs. Christie Odesola, wife of the Controller, Nigeria Correctional Service, Delta State; Hon. Sunny Ekedayen, Commissioner for Economic Planning; and Hon. Mrs. Cordelia Anyagwu, Commissioner at DESOPADEC, among others.

12th CNS National Swimming Championship: Delta Swimmers Shine as Event Concludes

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