2025: Nigeria Aquatics Federation elects the new members of the Board of Directors

Nigeria Aquatics Federation (NAQF) has elected new members of the Board of Directors to represent athletes and technical officials.

This follows a deeply contested election in Abuja in which the shepherd Jesimiel Nseobong Samuele emerged as a technical representative after defeating the Sunday Tilije with 24 votes at 18.

The former Olympic Eric Williams has secured the position of the athletes’ representative, while the Rachael Tonjor swimmer veteran has resigned in support of Williams before the start of the vote.

Speaking after his victory, Pastore Jesimiel, a veteran of the aquatic officer, praised the transparency of the electoral process. He underlined his commitment to lead the next generation of leaders within the Federation.

“The job is back,” he said.

“I openly told them not to recall in four years because I am already in my 70s. What I want to do is nourish the next generation. I selected five young people – two females and three males – and I will guide them to take control. After two years, you will see them work.”

He also promised to expand the development of coaches and technical officials, a program that opened the road six years ago, underlining that the final goal is to produce world -class athletes trained by Nigerian coaches.

Eric Williams, twice Olympic medal and Commonwealth Games, expressed joy for his elections and assured athletes his commitment to represent their interests.

“I want to sincerely thank God for this day,” said Williams.

“As an Olympian who represented Nigeria at the 2004 Athens games, at the 2002 Commonwealth games and several world championships, I know the heart of the athlete. Whatever is designed for athletes, they will get the elections.

The elections mark a new chapter for Nigeria Aquatics Federation, with both officials who promise to combine experience and innovation to strengthen sport at the basic and elite level.