Nigeria’s Adama Wins Historic Silver in Junior Swimming

By:Arinzechi Chukwunonso

The Nigeria Aquatic Federation (NAF) proudly announces a landmark achievement in the nation’s sporting history as Abduljabar Adama clinched the silver medal in the men’s 50m butterfly at the ongoing World Aquatics Junior Swimming Championships in Otopeni, Romania.

Adama touched the wall at 23.64 seconds, a performance that not only earned him second place on the global stage but also marked Nigeria’s first-ever medal in world swimming history. This feat represents the highest achievement by a Nigerian swimmer at any World Aquatics event since the inception of the sport in the country.

Earlier in March this year, Adama had stunned the continent at the 16th Africa Junior Swimming Championships in Cairo, Egypt, where he won three gold medals, one bronze, and set multiple records, including a new African Junior record in the 50m freestyle. His continued rise confirms his status as one of Africa’s brightest swimming prospects.

The Nigerian team, which trained in London for two weeks before departing for Romania, The President commended Adama’s performance, describing it as a “historic breakthrough that will inspire future generations of Nigerian swimmers to dream bigger and aim higher.”

“This medal shows the world that Nigeria can compete at the very top level of swimming. Abduljabar has not just won silver, he has opened the door for many more to follow,” Chief Daphey-Aliyu added.

The National Sports Commission has also congratulated the team, reiterating its commitment to supporting swimming as a podium sport for Nigeria, with Adama already a beneficiary of the Elite Athletes and Podium Performance Program.

With this achievement, Nigeria celebrates not only a medal but the dawn of a new era in aquatic sports. Abduljabar Adama’s silver in Romania is a reminder that with sustained investment, dedication, and exposure, Nigerian athletes can compete and triumph on the world stage.