Para Swimming: Adeyemi Shares Plans to Boost the Sport for LA 2028

The new President of the Nigeria Para Swimming Federation, Adeshina Adeyemi, has shared his plans to boost the sport. His focus is on grassroots development, more competitions, and giving athletes greater chances to compete internationally.

Speaking to reporters in Lagos over the weekend, Mr Adeyemi said his aim is to grow para swimming across Nigeria. He wants to prepare Nigerian athletes for the 2028 Paralympic Games in Los Angeles.

Mr Adeyemi recently took office and will lead the federation with Vice President Dr Ahmed Alao. Their new board was inaugurated by the National Sports Commission (NSC).

He mentioned that his top priority is to create more training and competition opportunities for athletes, both at home and abroad.

"I am committed to working hard to promote para swimming and support our athletes.

"Together, we can create more chances, strengthen our federation, and make a real difference in the lives of our athletes."

One of his immediate goals is to get para swimming included in the 2026 National Sports Festival in Enugu. Mr Adeyemi said talks are already in progress with relevant authorities. He believes this move will provide more competition opportunities and help find new talents across Nigeria.

He also promised to organize more para swimming events nationwide. He wants Nigerian athletes to compete regularly in international championships as they prepare for the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympic Games.

"Our main focus is to elevate para swimming and improve its fortunes for the better.

"We want to ensure there are more para swimming activities across Nigeria and that our athletes take part in many international competitions on the way to the LA 2028 Paralympic Games."

Mr Adeyemi also thanked the federation members for their faith in his leadership.

"I am truly grateful for the trust and confidence placed in me by the board members.

"I also want to thank the National Sports Commission, the Honourable Chairman, and the Director General for this wonderful opportunity."

The new board starts its work as the National Sports Commission, led by Chairman Shehu Dikko and Director General Bukola Olopade, continues initiatives to improve governance and athlete development in Nigeria's sports federations.

Under Mr Adeyemi’s guidance, the federation hopes to establish a stronger local structure that can produce athletes ready to compete successfully on both the continental and global levels.