By Joel Ajayi

President of the Nigeria Aquatics Federation, Chief (Mrs.) Chinoye Daphey Aliyu, has affirmed that the 12th edition of the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) National Swimming Championship in Asaba will play a crucial role in preparing top talents to represent Nigeria at the African Youth Championship scheduled to hold next year in Dakar, Senegal.

The 2025 edition of the CNS National Swimming Championship is slated to run from July 15 to 19 at the ultra-modern swimming complex in Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba, Delta State.

Speaking during a press briefing at the Navy Headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday, Chief Aliyu commended the Chief of Naval Staff and the Nigerian Navy for their steadfast dedication to the development of aquatic sports in the country. She emphasized that the championship would help discover and nurture promising young swimmers, particularly those under the age of 18, who will form the core of the junior national team.

“The CNS Championship remains a cornerstone of our strategy to scout, nurture, and prepare elite athletes who will represent Nigeria at key international events, including the Africa Youth Games, the World Aquatics Junior Championships in August, and other global competitions throughout 2025,” she stated.

Chief Aliyu further noted that the focus on junior swimmers is deliberate, as the competition serves as a critical platform for identifying future stars who can excel on the continental and global stage.

She also highlighted Nigeria’s recent international success, recalling that the country broke two African records in the 50m Butterfly and 50m Freestyle events at the 16th Africa Junior Swimming Championships in Egypt. Team Nigeria secured three gold medals and one bronze—an unprecedented achievement in the nation’s swimming history.

Aliyu credited part of the success to the Nigerian Navy’s support, particularly the deployment of Lieutenant Commander Labake Oriretan, a former national champion and experienced coach, to guide the national team during the tournament.

The forthcoming championship will attract swimmers from across the country, including state teams, swimming clubs, military and paramilitary organizations, and academic institutions. The Nigeria Aquatics Federation’s technical committee and national scouts will be on hand to evaluate performances and select outstanding athletes for further training at the national camp.

Chief Aliyu called on all stakeholders to continue supporting the initiative as Nigeria strives to maintain its rising profile in global aquatic sports.

Also speaking at the event, Chairman of the Nigerian Navy Swimming Association, Rear Admiral P.C. Nwatu, emphasized that the CNS Swimming Championship is designed to promote youth development nationwide.

“We are proud to be part of this tournament. At the Nigerian Navy, we see this competition as part of our corporate social responsibility. For nearly 15 years, we have remained committed to it, and we are looking forward to introducing more innovations to improve it,” he said.

Rear Admiral Nwatu stressed that the championship provides a much-needed platform for young athletes to showcase their talent, build confidence, and progress in their sporting careers.

“This platform enables youth to demonstrate their skills and be nurtured to reach the podium,” he added.

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