The Nigeria Aquatics Federation (NAqF) has rescheduled its annual grassroots swimming initiative, ‘Swim to the Future,’ to Sept. 5.
This is contained in a statement by Arinzechi Chukwunonso, Head, Media and Communication Unit of the NAqF on Tuesday in Lagos.
According to the federation, the 2026 edition of the initiative will be held in honour and remembrance of its late President, Chamberlain Dunkwu.
“The event which was earlier postponed following the death of Dunkwu, will now serve as a fitting tribute to his contributions to the development of aquatics in Nigeria.
“The competition will also resonate with Dunkwu’s commitment to creating opportunities for young swimmers to discover and develop their talents.
“The second edition of ‘Swim to the Future’ is also an annual initiative of NAqF designed to promote grassroots participation, youth development, and talent discovery.
“Under the leadership of the current President of the federation, Lekan Fatodu, we are committed to developing swimming at the grassroots, as well as strengthening the development of all aquatics sports in Nigeria,”the federation said.
It also reiterated its current president’s determination in building a sustainable pathway for young swimmers from the grassroots to the highest levels of national and international competitions.
“Swim to the Future is more than a swimming event. It is an investment in the future of Nigerian aquatics.
“We want to discover young talents, give them the right environment to develop and create a clear pathway for them to become tomorrow’s champions and superstars.
“The event in honour of Dunkwu gives it an even deeper significance.
“We cannot talk about the future of Nigerian aquatics without remembering those who dedicated themselves to building it,” the federation stated.
It added that the president was convinced that Dunkwu believed strongly in the potential of young Nigerians.
“This edition of Swim to the Future is therefore a celebration of that vision and a commitment to continuing the work he started,” it quoted Fatodu as saying.
Speaking further, it said Fatodu explained that the Sept. 5 event was designed for children between the ages of five and 14.
The president added that the event was expected to bring together young swimmers, coaches, officials, schools, clubs, and other stakeholders.
“The initiative will provide emerging talents with valuable competitive experience while strengthening the foundation for a new generation of elite Nigerian swimmers.
“NAqF therefore urges parents, schools, swimming stakeholders, and lovers of aquatics to support and participate in the initiative as it honors the memory of Dunkwu while building the champions of tomorrow,” it stated.
