NAqF President Nnamdi Chamberlain Dunkwu (center) meets Rear Admiral J.N. Maman (left) and senior Nigerian Navy officers at Naval Headquarters to strengthen aquatic sports collaboration.
The Nigeria Aquatics Federation (NAqF) has renewed discussions with the Nigerian Navy to strengthen collaboration in developing aquatic sports nationwide.
The Federation’s delegation, led by President Nnamdi Dunkwu, visited Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) Vice Admiral Abbas at Naval Headquarters, where they were received by Rear Admiral Jiya Maman, Chief of Administration, and other senior officers.
Over Two Decades of Support Highlighted
During the visit, Dunkwu highlighted the Navy’s long-term sponsorship of the Chief of Naval Staff Swimming Championship, which has run since 2000. He noted that the championship has grown from 13 teams at inception to more than 20 teams representing states, military institutions, universities, and private academies.
“At critical moments when support was limited, the Nigerian Navy stood behind the Federation,” Dunkwu said.
He stressed that the championship has evolved into a platform not just for competition but also for talent identification, youth engagement, and institutional collaboration. He added that swimming is a critical life skill for a country with extensive rivers and coastal areas.
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Expanding Beyond Swimming
Rear Admiral Maman, responding on behalf of the CNS, welcomed the Federation’s recognition and encouraged expansion into other aquatic disciplines, including sailing, rowing, kayaking, and diving. He highlighted the Navy’s existing infrastructure and expertise as resources that could support the growth of these sports.
“The Navy has divers, sailing clubs, and maritime professionals who can contribute. There is potential to build a broader aquatic ecosystem,” he said.
Maman also urged the Federation to leverage Nigeria’s water resources to create opportunities for youth participation, economic engagement, and international competitiveness.
Delegations
The Navy delegation included Rear Admirals Jiya Maman, E.J. Shinobani, Captains S.A. Olu, D. Muthanuku, Commander J.M. Muthunza, Sub-Lieutenant P.N. Niyoke, and Captain J.M. Ngun.
The NAF delegation included President Dunkwu, Secretary-General Taiwo Oriss, 1st Vice President Abdul-Hassan Magaji, board members Jidda Dakkwa and Florence Yori, and media representative Nonso Arinzechi.
Next Steps
The visit concluded with the signing of the visitors’ book, exchange of souvenirs, and a group photograph, signaling continued collaboration. Both parties acknowledged that the development of aquatic sports in Nigeria will depend on structured partnerships, grassroots investment, and institutional support.
The discussions highlighted challenges in expanding aquatic sports nationwide, including the need for more infrastructure, professional training, and wider youth engagement. The renewed collaboration aims to address these gaps and strengthen the framework for producing competitive athletes and promoting water safety.
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