CNS National Swimming Championship Ends in Asaba on High Note

By Arinzechi Chukwunonso

The curtain has officially fallen on the 12th edition of the Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) National Open Swimming Championship, which wrapped up today at the Stephen Keshi Stadium Swimming Arena in Asaba, Delta State. The five-day competition brought together swimmers from across Nigeria, representing clubs, states, and organizations, in a spirited contest that showcased the country’s growing strength in aquatic sports.

Declaring the championship closed, Rear Admiral Yusuf Sani Idris, Director of Sports at the Nigerian Navy—representing the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla—expressed deep satisfaction with the conduct and success of the tournament. “We have been engaged in competitive national swimming events for the last five days, and I am happy with all the participants and officials. No adverse incident was recorded, and the officiating met global best practices,” he stated. He also extended appreciation to the Nigeria Aquatic Federation, medical teams, volunteers, and all support staff for their unwavering contributions to the championship’s success.

President of the Nigeria Aquatic Federation, Chief (Mrs.) Chinonye Daphne Aliyu, described the event as “the most encapsulating aquatic competition in Nigeria,” emphasizing its critical role in the buildup to the 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Senegal. “This year we captured both junior and senior categories. Our goal is to start grooming these young athletes now for podium appearances at international competitions,” she said. She also applauded President Bola Tinubu’s youth-focused vision and commended the National Sports Commission for its ongoing support of talent discovery and development.

Also speaking at the event was Mrs. Christine Jobome Emetulu, wife of the member representing Ndokwa West in the Delta State House of Assembly. Representing the wife of the Delta State Governor, Her Excellency Deaconess Tobore Sheriff Oborevwori, she praised the state’s role in nurturing sporting excellence. “Delta State is known for excellence in sports. It is peaceful, investment-friendly, and development-oriented. Hosting the CNS Swimming Championship is a proud moment for us,” she said. She reaffirmed the state government’s readiness to collaborate with any sports body to host similar events and further youth engagement in sports.

With record-breaking performances and the emergence of young standout swimmers—some as young as six—the 2025 CNS Championship has cemented its place as a key platform for talent development. Stakeholders are now eager to build on this momentum through year-round training programs, international exposure, and sustained grassroots initiatives.

Other dignitaries at the closing ceremony included Commodore A.A. Zubairu, Commander Nigerian Navy Ship Delta; Mrs. Emouba Egabase, Director General, Delta State Sports Commission; Mrs. Christie Odesola, wife of the Controller, Nigeria Correctional Service Delta State; Hon. Sunny Ekedayen, Commissioner for Economic Planning; and Hon. Mrs. Cordelia Anyagwu, Commissioner at DESOPADEC, among others.