Aquatics Federation Hails NSC Plan to Build Olympic Swimming Pools   

By Arinzechi Chukwunonso

The Nigeria Aquatics Federation has applauded the National Sports Commission (NSC) for approving the construction of Olympic-standard swimming pools for the next three hosts of the National Sports Festival (NSF), beginning with Enugu and Bayelsa.

The decision, one of the key resolutions reached at the National Council of Sports meeting in Calabar is described as a major step toward addressing Nigeria’s infrastructural deficit in aquatics sports.

Federation President, Dunkwu Nnamdi Chamberlain, said the NSC initiative represents “a milestone achievement and a renewed commitment to inclusive sports growth and excellence.”

He noted that aquatic disciplines have struggled for years due to inadequate facilities, and stressed that new pools will improve athlete preparation, raise competition standards, and expand participation nationwide.

Secretary of the Federation, Mr. Taiwo Oriss, also welcomed the development, calling it a catalyst for long-term growth. “This is a strategic breakthrough for aquatics in Nigeria,” Oriss said.

He said “With continued implementation, we are on a clear path to achieving an Olympic-size swimming pool in every state before 2050.”

Dr. Chamberlain added that the new facilities will provide better training environments for young swimmers and strengthen Nigeria’s prospects in continental and global tournaments.

The Federation emphasised that the NSC’s decision aligns with international best practices, where festival host cities are equipped with modern facilities capable of supporting elite athletes and grassroots development.