Team Nigeria Dominates 2025 Africa Zone 2 Swimming Championship, Unveils Rising Stars

By Arinzechi Chukwunonso

Team Nigeria made a powerful statement at the 2025 Africa Zone 2 Swimming Championship, clinching multiple records and unveiling a new generation of young talents who are redefining Nigeria’s place in African swimming.

Competing against top swimmers from across West and Central Africa, Nigeria’s athletes turned in stellar performances — winning 30 medals in the junior category, including 11 gold, 5 silver, and 14 bronze — while setting five new continental records.

Record-Breaking Performances

Leading the medal charge was 14-year-old Aidan Dumuije-Abili, who stole the spotlight with an incredible haul of six golds, one silver, and one bronze. Aidan shattered five Africa Zone 2 records, including a standout 100m freestyle finish of 55.31 seconds, earning him the title of Most Valuable Junior Athlete.

“Every medal means more when you’re representing your country,” Aidan said. “Breaking records is great, but making Nigeria proud is what matters most.”

Rising Talents Shine

Another 14-year-old prodigy, Endurance Olise, struck gold twice in his debut appearance, showcasing speed, composure, and championship spirit.

12-year-old Maryam Muhammed emerged as one of the youngest medalists, winning both individual and team medals, earning admiration from coaches who described her as “a future star with immense potential.”

Power and Endurance

Timilehin Olaya dominated the long-distance category, winning three gold medals and setting new championship records in the 800m and 1500m freestyle events — establishing himself as Nigeria’s best open-water junior swimmer.

Tofunmi Ibidapo also impressed, winning gold, silver, and bronze across multiple events, while Goodluck Godwin earned a spot in the World Aquatics Future Wave Training Program, one of only two swimmers selected for elite training.

Veteran swimmers Dorcas Oka and Agnes John added experience and depth to Nigeria’s team, ensuring strong results in the senior division.

Nigeria’s Medal Tally

11 Gold

5 Silver

14 Bronze

Five Africa Zone 2 Records

A New Era for Nigerian Swimming

Coach Abiodun Ojomo praised the swimmers’ dedication, saying the results show that Nigeria’s youth development program is delivering results.

“We’re not just participating anymore — we’re competing, breaking records, and building future champions,” he said.

Head of Delegation Taiwo Oriss thanked the National Sports Commission for its support, noting that the performance reflects “the right foundation for success and athlete development.”

From Aidan’s record-breaking sprints to Maryam’s fearless debut, Team Nigeria’s triumph at the 2025 Africa Zone 2 Championship.

This marks a turning point for Nigerian swimming, a blend of talent, discipline, and a growing belief that the country can stand tall among Africa’s aquatic elite.