Nigeria Aquatics Federation Elects New Board Members 

By Arinzechi Chukwunonso

The Nigeria Aquatics Federation has elected new board members to represent athletes and technical officials.

This follows a keenly contested election in Abuja where Pastor Jesimiel Nseobong Samuel emerged as Technical Representative after defeating Sunday Tilije by 24 votes to 18.

Former Olympian Eric Williams secured the position of Athletes’ Representative while Veteran swimmer Rachael Tonjor stepped down in support of Williams before voting commenced.

Speaking after his victory, Pastor Jesimiel, a veteran in aquatics officiating, commended the transparency of the electoral process. He emphasized his commitment to mentoring the next generation of leaders within the federation.

“Work has come again,” he said. “I openly told them not to call me back in four years because I’m already in my 70s. What I want to do now is to nurture the next generation. I have selected five young people—two females and three males—and I will mentor them to take over. After two years, you will see them functioning.”

He also pledged to expand the development of coaches and technical officials, a program he pioneered six years ago, stressing that the ultimate goal is to produce world-class athletes trained by Nigerian coaches.

Eric Williams, a two-time Olympian and Commonwealth Games medalist, expressed delight at his election and assured athletes of his commitment to representing their interests.

“I want to sincerely thank God for this day,” Williams said. “As an Olympian who represented Nigeria at the 2004 Athens Games, the 2002 Commonwealth Games, and several World Championships, I know the heart of the athlete. Whatever is meant for athletes, they will get. The election was fair, transparent, and 100% good. Now we must work hard to ensure more Nigerian athletes qualify for the Olympics, Commonwealth Games, and other international competitions.”

The elections mark a fresh chapter for the Nigeria Aquatics Federation, with both officials promising to combine experience and innovation to strengthen the sport at grassroots and elite levels.