President of the Nigeria Aquatics Federation, Lekan Fatodu, has identified improved infrastructure as a major priority in efforts to develop aquatics and produce more Nigerian athletes capable of competing at the international level.
Fatodu said the federation is working towards expanding access to quality swimming facilities while introducing modern technology to improve training and competition standards.
He highlighted plans to introduce automatic timing systems and develop additional swimming facilities in major cities, including Lagos and Abuja.
According to Fatodu, investing in infrastructure will provide athletes with better conditions to train, compete and develop their abilities.
“Improving infrastructure will be crucial to the growth of aquatics in Nigeria,” Fatodu said.
The federation president also stressed the importance of stronger partnerships with the private sector and schools, describing them as key channels for identifying young talents and giving them the opportunity to develop into elite athletes.
Fatodu believes schools can play a particularly important role in expanding the talent pool, with structured programmes capable of identifying promising swimmers at an early age.
He also wants greater collaboration with private organisations to support the development of facilities, competitions and athlete programmes.
The focus, according to Fatodu, is not only on producing better swimming facilities but also on creating a sustainable pathway through which talented young Nigerians can progress from grassroots participation to national and international competition.
Nigeria has continued to produce athletes with potential across swimming and other aquatic disciplines, but limited infrastructure and access to modern training resources remain major challenges.
Fatodu believes addressing those challenges will be essential if Nigeria is to compete more consistently on the international stage.
With plans for improved facilities, automatic timing technology and stronger school and private-sector partnerships, the Nigeria Aquatics Federation is looking to lay the foundation for a new generation of athletes capable of representing the country at major global competitions.
