…As Nnamdi pledges to harness riverine talents
The Nigeria Aquatic Federation (NAqF) has officially inaugurated its newly constituted board, marking the beginning of a new era for aquatic sports development in the country. The inauguration ceremony, held in Abuja, brought together sports administrators, athletes, technical experts, and stakeholders in the aquatic ecosystem, all eager to witness the emergence of a leadership team that promises to elevate Nigeria’s presence in global water sports. In the keenly anticipated inauguration, Dr. Dunkwu Chamberlain Nnamdi emerged as President of the Federation, securing all available votes in an unopposed election — a testament to the confidence and trust reposed in his leadership and vision.
Dr. Dunkwu, who has been a long-time advocate for grassroots sports development, pledged to reposition the Federation and create more opportunities for young athletes, especially from the riverine communities across Nigeria. “We are blessed as a nation with enormous aquatic potential — from the riverine areas of the Niger Delta to the lakes and coastlines of the North and West,” Dr. Dunkwu said in his inaugural address. “Our mission is to harness that natural advantage, nurture the raw talent waiting to be discovered, and attract sponsors who share our dream of making Nigeria a continental and global force in aquatic sports.”
He also emphasized the need for strategic partnerships, capacity building for coaches and officials, and increased participation in international competitions as core objectives of his administration. Supporting him in the new board is Mr. Abdul-Hassan Magaji, the North West Representative, who was elected 1st Vice President, and Mr. Adebayo Abdul Rasaq Owolabi (WOPA) from North Central, who will serve as 2nd Vice President. Other members of the newly inaugurated board include:
1. Mr. Babatunde Fatayi-Williams – International Representative
2. Pst. Jesimiel Nseobong Samuel – Technical Representative
3. Mr. Odobeatu Joseph Anayo – South East Representative
4. Dr. Babatunde Henry Omoyele – South West Representative
5. Lt. Comdr. Labake Oriretan – Institutional Representative
6. Dr. Suleiman Usman Omeize – NAPHER-SD Representative
7. Mrs. Yori Florence – NAWIS Representative
8. Mr. Eric Williams – Athlete Representative
9. Mrs. Obia Inyengiyekabo Lenienu Affan – Representative Member
10. Mr. Minabowan Clement Sunday – South South Representative
11. Mr. Kyari Mohammed Maina – North East Representative
12. Mr. Taiwo Oriss – Secretary-General
The new leadership team, which brings together a blend of administrators, former athletes, and institutional representatives, has been tasked with reviving the country’s aquatic programs, from swimming and diving to water polo and synchronized events. Stakeholders present at the event lauded the transparent process and expressed optimism that the new board, under Dr. Dunkwu’s leadership, will bring innovation, inclusivity, and renewed energy to the sport.
With Nigeria’s vast network of waterways and a growing pool of untapped talent, the new board’s commitment to developing infrastructure, expanding training programs, and enhancing sponsorship opportunities is expected to lay a strong foundation for the future of aquatic sports in the country. The inauguration of the Nigeria Aquatic Federation board signals a fresh chapter — one anchored on vision, unity, and the belief that the next generation of aquatic champions will emerge from the nation’s rivers, lakes, and coasts.
