The President of the Nigeria Surfing Federation (NSF), Prince Adewale Fawe, has set an ambitious course for the sport’s future in Nigeria, declaring that the nation has the talent and potential to compete on the world stage—if only given the necessary support.
Speaking at the recent National Surfing Festival held at Tarkwa Bay, Lagos, Fawe revealed his goal of leading Nigeria’s surfers to the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
“The prospects of surfing in Nigeria are very high,” he stated. “We have the talent and the passion, but funding remains our greatest challenge.”
Surfing, still in its infancy in Nigeria, is beginning to find its footing among the youth, especially in coastal communities. Fawe emphasized the sport’s potential to transform lives and provide hope for disadvantaged youth.
“With surfing, some of them that are hopeless, that have nothing to do, that are frustrated, are beginning to develop hope… It becomes something positive in life,” he said.
Despite the enthusiasm, the NSF continues to struggle with limited resources.
The federation is working to secure more partnerships, both locally and internationally.
Collaborations with the International Surfing Association and support from the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) have already laid a foundation for growth.
Projects such as training programs, equipment donations, and grassroots empowerment initiatives are underway to build capacity and raise the sport’s profile.
The push for Olympic inclusion also reflects a broader conversation about sports development in Nigeria. Following the country’s disappointing performance at the Paris 2024 Games, many stakeholders have called for early funding and strategic planning ahead of 2028.
Critics argue that without a serious commitment from both the public and private sectors, Nigeria risks repeating past mistakes.
Still, Fawe remains undeterred. He believes that with consistent support and investment, Nigerian surfers can make history. “Surfing is more than just a sport; it’s a movement. And with the right backing, we can ride our way into Olympic glory,” he concluded.
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