Ogun 2025: Olopade Adse Ija Success when Abili, 15, emerges as a medalist at the National Sports Festival

There has been a significant milestone at the 22nd National Sports Festival in the state of Ogun, since the guest initiative of Junior athletes (IJA) demonstrates its promise with the appearance of 15 -year -old swimmer Aidan Dumuje Abili as a triple medalist.

Abili, an outstanding artist at the 2024 National Youth Games, where he achieved three gold medals, continued his impressive way by winning two silver medals in the 50 my 100m back blow, and a bronze in the 200 -meter back blow, his debut at this level of elite competition.

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The General Director of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Excmo. Bukola Olopade, visibly moved during the medal presentation ceremony and used the time to reflect on the success of the IJA project.

> “I am glad to see the immediate impact of this new IJA project that we started in the NSC,” Olopade said. “We gave these young athletes the opportunity to compete at the highest level, and they are demonstrating that age is not a barrier. His courage and performance so far are really commendable.”

The concept of IJA, presented as the 38th symbolic state at the festival, mainly presents athletes under 17, all extracted from the group of champions in the youth games last year in Asaba. It is part of a strategic plan to accelerate base talents in the elite sports picture.

“If even one of them earns a bronze, they rise to the elite status and automatically describe for the NSC athlete subsidy. That is the vision: identify and prepare Olympic level athletes of the bases,” Olopade added.

Grateful for the platform, Abili shared his thanks and aspirations:

“This is the first time competing at this level, and it is a great learning experience. I thank the NSC for this opportunity. Now I have my eyes in the Youth Olympic Games and, finally, the Olympic Games itself. I want Nigeria to feel proud and ensure that this experience of Ija tells.”

As the Gateway games continue, the early impact of the IJA program is drawing attention, and it can well mark the beginning of a golden era for youth sports in Nigeria.

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