A significant milestone has been recorded at the 22nd National Sports Festival in Ogun State, as the Invited Junior Athletes (IJA) initiative proves its promise with the emergence of 15-year-old swimmer Aidan Dumuje Abili as a triple medalist.
Abili, a standout performer at the 2024 National Youth Games where he clinched three gold medals, continued his impressive form by winning two silver medals in the 50m and 100m backstroke, and a bronze in the 200m backstroke—his debut at this elite level of competition.
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The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, was visibly moved during the medal presentation ceremony and used the moment to reflect on the success of the IJA project.
> “It gladdens my heart to see the immediate impact of this new IJA project we initiated at the NSC,” Olopade stated. “We gave these young athletes a chance to compete at the highest level, and they’re proving that age is no barrier. Their courage and performance so far are truly commendable.”
The IJA concept, introduced as the symbolic 38th state at the festival, features primarily under-17 athletes—all drawn from the pool of champions at last year’s Youth Games in Asaba. It is part of a strategic plan to fast-track grassroots talents into the elite sports cadre.
“If even one of them wins a bronze, they are elevated to elite status and automatically qualify for the NSC Athlete Grant. That’s the vision: identifying and grooming Olympic-level athletes from the grassroots,” Olopade added.
Grateful for the platform, Abili shared his appreciation and aspirations:
“This is my first time competing at this level, and it’s a huge learning experience. I thank the NSC for this opportunity. I now have my eyes on the Youth Olympics, and eventually the Olympics itself. I want to make Nigeria proud and ensure this IJA experience counts.”
As the Gateway Games continue, the early impact of the IJA program is turning heads—and may well mark the beginning of a golden era for youth sports development in Nigeria.
