Fatodu Warns High Cost of Swimming Could Stifle Nigeria’s Young Talents

By Dorcas Francis Koji

President of the Nigeria Aquatics Federation, Lekan Fatodu, has raised concerns over the high cost of swimming in Nigeria, warning that financial challenges could limit opportunities for young talents to develop and reach the elite level.

Fatodu made the call as the federation continues its efforts to improve swimming development in the country, including the ongoing International Olympic Committee Olympic Solidarity technical coaching course in Lagos.

According to the federation president, sustained commitment from the government, parents, sports administrators and other stakeholders is essential to reducing the barriers facing aspiring swimmers.

“The fact remains that swimming is an expensive sport, and what we need is commitment from the government, the federation, parents and other stakeholders,” Fatodu said.

He also stressed the importance of stronger collaboration among stakeholders to attract sponsorship and establish programmes tailored to swimmers at different stages of development.

“With the right level of commitment and collaboration, we can attract sponsorship and develop programmes dedicated to different categories of swimmers,” he added.

Fatodu said the federation would continue creating opportunities for young swimmers through its development programmes, while emphasising the importance of identifying promising talents early and providing them with the necessary support and coaching.

A total of 35 Nigerian coaches are participating in the six-day Olympic Solidarity programme in Lagos, which is designed to improve coaching standards and strengthen the country’s swimming talent pool.

Nigeria’s recent performance at the Africa Zone 2 Swimming Championships in Dakar, Senegal, further highlighted the potential within the country’s swimming programme, with the team returning with 35 medals comprising 17 gold, 14 silver and four bronze.

Fatodu said continued investment and support would be vital to ensuring that Nigeria’s emerging swimmers can progress from grassroots development to the elite level and compete successfully on the international stage.