Team Nigeria Make Strong Start At 17th Africa Aquatics Championships In Oran

The Nigeria Aquatics Federation ( NAqF) has expressed delight over a spirited and competitive showing by Team Nigeria at the ongoing 17th Africa Aquatics Championships in Oran, Algeria, with athletes already making their mark on the podium and progressing to key finals.

Team Nigeria opened their medal account on Day 1 in impressive fashion, as Collins Ebinga secured a bronze medal in the men’s 100m butterfly, setting a new personal best of 50.68 seconds, highlighting his rising profile on the continental stage.

In another commendable performance, India Kate Brown also clinched a bronze medal, further boosting Nigeria’s early medal tally and underscoring the team’s strong start to the championships.

On Day 2, Nigeria maintained a strong presence in the finals with impressive qualifying performances as Collins Ebinga advanced to the final of the 50m butterfly, while Dorcas Oka qualified for the final of the 100m breaststroke, showcasing the team’s growing depth across events.

In the 50m butterfly final, Collins Ebinga delivered a strong performance but narrowly missed out on the podium, finishing 4th, just behind competitors from Egypt and South Africa, who claimed the medal positions.

Despite determined efforts, Dorcas Oka also finished outside the podium places in the 100m breaststroke final. Nevertheless, both athletes’ progression to the finals reflects Nigeria’s increasing competitiveness at the continental level.

NAqF in a statement released on Thursday by its Media and Communications unit, commended all the athletes for their resilience, discipline, and commitment to excellence.

“These performances demonstrate clear progress, with podium finishes, personal bests, and multiple final appearances signalling a positive trajectory for Nigerian aquatics,” the Federation stated.

Team Nigeria remains focused and motivated as the championships continue, with several events still ahead and strong medal prospects in sight.

The Federation reaffirms its commitment to supporting athletes in their pursuit of excellence and elevating Nigeria’s profile in aquatic sports across Africa.