The National Sports Commission (NSC) has applauded Team Nigeria and the Nigeria Aquatics Federation following an impressive performance at the 17th Africa Aquatics Championships held in Oran, Algeria from May 5 to 10, 2026.
Nigeria finished the competition with three bronze medals and earned widespread recognition for its growing influence in African aquatics.
A major highlight for Team Nigeria was the brilliant outing of young swimming sensation, India Kate Brown, who claimed two bronze medals in the Girls’ 100m and 200m Butterfly events.
Brown recorded a time of 1:05.73 in the 100m Butterfly before adding another podium finish in the 200m Butterfly with a time of 2:29.01, further cementing her status as one of Nigeria’s brightest prospects in swimming.
Nigeria also impressed in the senior category as Collins Ebinga produced a commendable display in the Men’s 100m Butterfly final, finishing fifth in a fiercely contested race with a time of 54.92 seconds.
Beyond the medals, Nigeria’s growing reputation in aquatics was further reinforced when the Nigeria Aquatics Federation received the prestigious Fastest Developing Federation in Africa award from Africa Aquatics during the closing ceremony.
Director General of the NSC, Bukola Olopade, described the achievement as evidence of the remarkable progress being made across various sports in the country.
He praised the commitment of the athletes, coaches, and federation officials, noting that the recognition reflects the positive impact of ongoing reforms and investments spearheaded by the Commission under the leadership of NSC Chairman, Shehu Dikko.
Olopade added that the Commission remains committed to supporting federations focused on grassroots development, technical growth, athlete welfare, and international competitiveness.
The latest achievement marks a significant turnaround for Nigerian aquatics, a sport that previously struggled for visibility at continental events. With sustained support and strategic planning, Nigeria is gradually emerging as one of Africa’s rising forces in swimming.
The Nigeria Aquatics Federation also expressed appreciation to the National Sports Commission for its continued support throughout the championship campaign.
The successful outing in Algeria underscores the potential of Nigerian swimmers to compete at the highest levels on the continent. By securing both medals and administrative accolades, the federation has set a new benchmark for aquatic sports development in the country. This progress signals a promising future for the sport as athletes prepare for upcoming international engagements.
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