LAGOS/Nigeria: The Chief Chinoye Daphey Aliyu-led Nigerian Aquatic Federation has made a remarkable splash on the world stage, clinching the 31st position in the global ranking at the recently concluded World Aquatic Championship in Fukuoka, Japan.
The news was revealed by Chief Aliyu herself, the country’s first female President of the Federation, upon her return from the Asian country, lauded Nigeria’s athletes for their outstanding performance, bringing glory to the nation and elevating it on the medal table.
Chief Aliyu, a native of Ukwuani, Delta State, expressed her pride in Team Nigeria’s display of enthusiasm, tact, capacity, competence, and resilience throughout the competition, stating, “I am proud of Team Nigeria who demonstrated discipline and the can-do spirit of an average Nigerian.”
The Nigerian contingent to the tournament consisted of four swimmers: Collins Ebighan, Clinton Opute, Dorcas Okar, and Adaku Nwandu, along with the team’s Coach, Sunday Tilije, accompanied by two board members, Mrs. Stella Ebegboni and the Secretary-General, Mr. Joel Akinluwa.
Reflecting on the experience of the Japan 2023 tournament, Chief Aliyu emphasized the need to develop better funding for athletes to ensure even greater success at the global stage. She asserted that Nigeria has once again proven its status as the giant of Africa but emphasized the importance of promoting the ‘Nigerian brand.’
Chief Aliyu, a sports administrator, expressed her belief that with sufficient funding, Nigerian athletes possess the potential to become one of the top ten swimming nations in the world. She called on the government to take action in ensuring early preparation and support for the nation’s athletes, acknowledging that aquatic sports rank among the best and most popular in the world.
The championship witnessed a remarkable achievement by Nigerian swimmer Clinton Opute, who received a scholarship to study in Budapest, Hungary, fully sponsored by the world athletic body, owing to his exemplary swimming talent.
As the event came to a close on Sunday, a new record was set by Swede Sarah Sjostrom, surpassing Michael Phelps’ swimming record. Sjostrom won her 21st individual world medal, surpassing Phelps’ tally and retaining her women’s 50m freestyle title.
With Australia claiming the top spot on the medal table with a record-equalling 13 golds, Nigeria’s achievement at the 31st position signifies its potential in the world of aquatic sports. As the federation aims to unlock the full potential of athletes in the country, adequate funding and support remain crucial for future success in international competitions.
