Nigerian Aquatic Federation Trains 50 Coaches Across Nigeria
The National Sports Commission, through the Nigerian Aquatic Federation (NAqF), in collaboration with the African Aquatic body, has successfully organised a nationwide training programme for 50 swimming coaches across the country under the banner: “Africa Level 2 Coaching Clinic 2025.”
This landmark event is currently being held at the Moshood Abiola International Stadium (MKO) in Abuja. The intensive clinic is being facilitated by the globally respected coach and expert course facilitator, Cedric Finch. The goal is to empower Nigerian swimming coaches with advanced knowledge and tools to elevate the sport nationwide.
In his remarks, Mallam Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, expressed deep appreciation to the Secretary of the Nigerian Aquatic Federation, Mr. Oriss Taiwo, for initiating this impactful milestone. He noted that the training is a strategic move aimed at strengthening sports development across Nigeria.
Also speaking, Hon. Bukola Olopade, Director General of the National Sports Commission, lauded the collaborative effort, stating: “This collaboration signifies the imminent advancement and revitalisation of the sports sector, ensuring that it garners the necessary attention and support it deserves. We look forward to the possible impact that this collaboration will bring to the Aquatic Federation in our country.”
On her part, Chief (Mrs) Chinonye Daphey Aliyu, President of the Nigeria Aquatic Federation, highlighted the purpose of the event. She explained, “Our goal is to equip coaches across the nation with the necessary skills and keep them updated with the latest trends and regulations in the sport.” She emphasized that the coaching clinic will cover a wide array of topics including advanced techniques, training methodologies, and sports psychology.
Chief Aliyu also stressed the importance of networking, revealing that the clinic creates opportunities for coaches to learn from experienced facilitators and collaborate with peers from different regions, fostering long-term growth and development in the sport.
Leading the training, Mr. Cedric Finch, in a session titled “Train to Train”, explained that this phase is critical in shaping athletes’ physical abilities over a 4 to 5-year period. “This is the window of opportunity to train stamina, speed, and strength while maintaining agility, balance, coordination, and strength (ABCS), and exploring specific swimming techniques,” he said. “This stage is all about building the engine.”
He urged coaches not to miss this golden opportunity. “If you’re a coach looking to upskill and stay ahead of the game, this is an opportunity you won’t want to miss,” Finch stated. “Open to coaches from all over the federation, this four-day event will provide a unique blend of practical and theoretical sessions, designed to elevate coaching techniques and knowledge.”
Finch added that the clinic offers a supportive and conducive environment for learning and growth. “Attention all swimming coaches in Nigeria! Get ready to take your coaching game to the next level as the Nigeria Aquatic Federation (NAqF) and World Aquatics join forces to host a Level 2 Coaching Clinic.”
He continued, “This four-day event will provide a unique blend of practical and theoretical sessions, designed to elevate your coaching techniques and knowledge. Topics include advanced techniques, training methodologies, and sports psychology. Attendees will also have the chance to learn from experienced coaches and collaborate with others from different regions, creating valuable networking opportunities.”
Finch concluded with a passionate call to action: “Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to enhance your coaching skills and take your career to new heights. Join us in paving the way for the future of swimming in Nigeria. You won’t regret it!”
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