The Nigeria Aquatics Federation has reaffirmed its long-standing partnership with the Nigerian Navy following a high-level courtesy visit to Naval Headquarters in Abuja.
Leading the delegation was Federation President Nnamdi Chamberlain Dunkwu, who paid a visit to the Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Idi Abbas. The team was received on behalf of the CNS by Rear Admiral J.N. Maman, Chief of Administration, alongside other senior naval officers.
In his remarks, Dunkwu expressed profound gratitude to the Navy for its unwavering support of the Chief of Naval Staff Swimming Championship since its inception in 2000. He highlighted the remarkable growth of the competition, which has expanded from 13 teams at launch to more than 20 teams today, drawing participants from states, military institutions, universities, and private academies nationwide.
According to him, the championship has grown beyond a competitive event into a structured platform for talent identification, youth development, and institutional cooperation.
He noted that during challenging periods in the Federation’s history, the Nigerian Navy provided critical backing that sustained the sport. Through this enduring partnership, several athletes have been discovered, nurtured, and supported to secure international scholarships and represent Nigeria on the global stage.
Dunkwu also stressed that swimming goes beyond sport, describing it as a vital life-saving skill and a strategic national asset for a country blessed with extensive rivers and coastal waters.
Responding on behalf of the CNS, Rear Admiral Maman acknowledged the Federation’s appreciation and reaffirmed the Navy’s readiness to continue supporting aquatic sports development.
He encouraged the Federation to broaden its scope beyond competitive swimming to include other aquatic disciplines such as sailing, rowing, kayaking, and diving. He noted that the Navy possesses the infrastructure, maritime environment, and technical expertise required to support such expansion.
Emphasising shared operational space and environmental realities, he pointed out that the Navy’s divers, sailing clubs, and maritime professionals could play an instrumental role in building a more comprehensive aquatic sports ecosystem in Nigeria.
He further urged the Federation to harness Nigeria’s abundant water resources to promote youth engagement, enhance economic opportunities, and improve the country’s international sporting competitiveness.
The Nigerian Navy delegation included Rear Admiral J.N. Maman (Chief of Administration), Rear Admiral E.J. Shinobani, Captain S.A. Olu, Captain D. Muthanuku (Director of Sports), Commander J.M. Muthunza (SO1 Sports), Sub-Lieutenant P.N. Niyoke, and Captain J.M. Ngun.
The Nigeria Aquatics Federation delegation comprised President Nnamdi Chamberlain Dunkwu, Secretary-General Taiwo Oriss, First Vice President Abdul-Hassan Magaji, Board Members Mr. Jidda Dakkwa and Florence Yori, and Media Representative Nonso Arinzechi.
The visit concluded with the signing of the visitors’ book, exchange of commemorative gifts, and a group photograph, symbolising a renewed commitment to sustained collaboration.
Both institutions agreed that the advancement of aquatic sports in Nigeria will require structured partnerships, grassroots investment, and strategic institutional backing.
The engagement marks another significant milestone in the relationship between the Nigeria Aquatics Federation and the Nigerian Navy, underscoring a shared commitment to producing world-class athletes, promoting water safety, and strengthening national unity through sport.