Aquatics Federation organises capacity-building program in Lagos

At least 50 participants, including coaches, trainers and lifeguards, will be part of the upcoming 2025 National Swimming Coaches/Teachers Certification Course (Level 1) scheduled to take place between 10th to 15th, 2025 at the National Stadium, Lagos.

Briefing the media on Wednesday at the Media Centre of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, President of the Nigeria Aquatics Federation (NAqF), Chief Chinoye Daphey Aliyu, expressed confidence that the training will play a vital role in discovering and developing new swimming talents capable of representing of winning laurels for Nigeria at international competitions.

According to the NAqF boss, swimmers, coaches, lifeguards and other aquatic professionals have lot to benefit as they will receive specialized training across different levels while adding that the certification course is designed not only to update the skills of existing coaches and teachers but also to introduce fresh talent into the sport, building a strong foundation in modern coaching techniques and water safety.

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She said, “Our primary objective with this course is capacity building. We want to ensure that both experienced and aspiring coaches are well-equipped with the latest training methods and safety protocols.

“Through this, we can raise a new generation of swimmers capable of excelling on the global stage. Nigeria is blessed with raw talent and with the right guidance, many of our athletes will proudly stand on international podiums.”

While highlighting the importance of water safety education, she said that beyond competitive swimming, the program will focus on life-saving skills, first aid and proper pool management.

“This initiative is about talent discovery and ensuring we have qualified personnel who can teach water safety across schools, recreational centres and communities. Swimming is not just a sport, it is a vital life skill that every Nigerian should have and our federation is committed to making that a reality.”

She urged all stakeholders, including state associations, private swimming clubs and educational institutions, to support the program and encourage wide participation. She stressed that with collective effort, Nigeria can become a dominant force in aquatic sports across Africa and beyond.

She explained that the four-day intensive capacity-building program will equip participants with essential knowledge and practical skills to effectively train and mentor young swimmer,s which she said aligns with the Federation’s strategic plan to identify, develop and nurture swimming talent across the country.

Sporting Tribune reports that the key objectives of the course was to equip aspiring and existing swimming coaches and teachers with modern coaching techniques; fostering a deeper understanding of water safety, stroke mechanics and training methodologies as well as building a pool of certified coaches who can contribute to the long-term growth of aquatic sports and drive Nigeria towards podium success.