Fatodu Pledges Reform and Growth After Emerging Aquatics Federation President

Fatodu Pledges Reform and Growth After Emerging Aquatics Federation President

By Admin 

Lekan Fatodu has been elected President of the Nigeria Aquatics Federation (NAqF) following a by-election held in Abuja on Friday, securing an overwhelming mandate from members of the federation's board, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Fatodu, who currently serves as Director General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, succeeds the late Dr. Chamberlain Dunkwu, whose passing created a vacancy in the federation's top leadership position.

The by-election, supervised and endorsed by the National Sports Commission (NSC), saw Fatodu emerge victorious with a commanding 10-1 vote, earning him a four-year mandate to lead the federation and oversee the development of aquatic sports in Nigeria.

Board members paid tribute to the late Dunkwu before reaffirming their confidence in Fatodu's ability to provide strong leadership and drive the growth of the sport across the country.

Speaking after his election, Fatodu expressed appreciation to the National Sports Commission and members of the aquatics community for the trust reposed in him.

“I am delighted that we are making history together as a sporting family and contributing to the advancement of Nigerian sports,” he said.

The newly elected president also commended the leadership of the National Sports Commission, particularly Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko and Director General Hon. Bukola Olopade, for their efforts in repositioning the country's sports sector.

According to Fatodu, the progress recorded under the current NSC leadership has contributed significantly to raising standards across Nigerian sports.

He pledged to justify the confidence placed in him by stakeholders and work towards building a sustainable and economically viable aquatics sector.

“This is a responsibility I accept with full commitment and dedication. I assure the aquatics family and the National Sports Commission that I will work tirelessly to deliver on the mandate entrusted to me and help build a sustainable future for the sport in Nigeria,” he said.

Fatodu brings extensive administrative and sports management experience to the role, having played a key part in sports development initiatives in Lagos State. His election is expected to usher in a new phase for Nigerian aquatics as the federation seeks to strengthen athlete development, improve grassroots participation, and enhance the country's competitiveness at continental and international competitions.

The Nigeria Aquatics Federation is responsible for the administration and development of aquatic sports in the country, including swimming, diving, water polo, artistic swimming, and open-water swimming.