By Aderonke Ojo
Nigeria made an impressive start at the 2026 Africa Aquatics Zone 2 Junior and Senior Swimming Championship in Dakar, Senegal, finishing Day One in second position on the medal table behind the host nation, Senegal.
The Nigerian contingent secured a total of eight medals on the opening day, comprising two gold, four silver and two bronze medals, in a strong display of talent, determination and competitive spirit.
Leading Nigeria’s gold-medal charge were Aidan Dumuje and India Brown, who emerged victorious in their respective 100-metre freestyle events.
Nigeria’s silver-medal haul was boosted by strong performances from Omolola Akinsanmi, Demilade Ayemowa and Tofunmi Ibidapo, who delivered commendable results in their respective events, including the 100-metre freestyle, 100-metre breaststroke and 200-metre butterfly.
The Nigerian team also added two bronze medals, with notable performances in the boys’ and girls’ 200-metre breaststroke categories, as well as the junior mixed relay.
The impressive Day One outing places Nigeria firmly among the leading nations at the championship and provides a strong platform for the team as competition continues in Dakar.
With several events still to come, the Nigerian delegation remains focused on building on its opening-day success and improving its medal tally in the days ahead.
Nigeria’s performance on Day One reflects the depth of emerging swimming talent in the country and underscores the nation’s growing presence on the African aquatics stage.
