The Nigeria Aquatics Federation (NAqF) has announced that the 12th edition of the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) Swimming Championships will take place from 15 to 19 May 2025, in the sporting hub of Asaba, Delta State.
NAqF President, Chief (Mrs) Chinoye Daphey Aliyu, disclosed this information while addressing a press conference at the Nigerian Navy headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday. She highlighted the significance of the 12th CNS National Swimming Championship in Asaba as a crucial step in preparing Nigeria’s top talents for the upcoming African Youth Championship, scheduled for next year in Dakar, Senegal.
Aliyu stated that the Championship is expected to attract talented swimmers from across Nigeria, including state teams, swimming clubs, military and paramilitary organisations, as well as academic institutions.
She commended the Chief of Naval Staff and the Nigerian Navy for their unwavering commitment to the advancement of aquatic sports in Nigeria, underscoring the championship’s role in identifying and nurturing promising swimmers, particularly those under the age of 18, who will form the backbone of the junior national team.
“The CNS Championship is a cornerstone of our strategy to scout, nurture, and prepare elite athletes for key international events, including the Africa Youth Games, the World Aquatics Junior Championships in August, and other global competitions throughout 2025,” she stated.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s recent international accomplishments, she noted that the nation set two African records in the 50m Butterfly and 50m Freestyle events at the 16th Africa Junior Swimming Championships held in Egypt. Team Nigeria secured three gold medals and one bronze, marking a historic achievement for the country in the realm of swimming.
Aliyu attributed part of this success to the support from the Nigerian Navy, particularly the involvement of Lieutenant Commander Labake Oriretan, a former national champion and experienced coach, who guided the national team during the tournament.
While urging all stakeholders to continue supporting this initiative as Nigeria seeks to enhance its profile in global aquatic sports, Aliyu announced that the technical committee of the Nigeria Aquatics Federation, alongside national scouts, will evaluate performances and select outstanding athletes for further training at the national camp.
Speaking at the press conference, the Chairman of the Nigerian Navy Swimming Association, Rear Admiral P.C. Nwatu, remarked that the CNS Swimming Championship is dedicated to promoting youth development across Nigeria.
“We are proud to be part of this tournament. At the Nigerian Navy, we view this competition as a component of our corporate social responsibility. For nearly 15 years, we have remained committed to it, and we look forward to introducing further innovations to improve the event,” he stated.
Rear Admiral Nwatu emphasised that the championship provides a vital platform for young athletes to showcase their talents, build confidence, and advance their sporting careers.
“This platform enables youth to demonstrate their skills and be nurtured to reach the podium,” he added.
