Thirteen-year-old Tofunmi Ibidapo made history on Thursday evening by winning a silver medal in the 200-meter breaststroke event at the ongoing Gateway Games, effectively ending Oyo State’s seven-year medal drought in swimming at the National Sports Festival.
Competing at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta, Ibidapo’s performance was both commanding and inspiring as she surged past seasoned swimmers from Delta and Bayelsa states to secure second place. Her feat marks the first time Oyo State has claimed a swimming medal since the 19th National Sports Festival held in Abuja in 2018.
The young swimmer’s achievement sparked scenes of jubilation among supporters and spectators who witnessed the historic moment.
Speaking to journalists after the race, Ibidapo revealed that she began swimming competitively at the age of seven. “I’ve participated in the National Youth Games where I won gold in the 200 meters. I’ve also competed internationally at the African Swimming Championship in Egypt and the World School Championship in the UK,” she said. “Although I didn’t win medals at those events, they gave me valuable experience.”
A student of Queens School Lagos, Ibidapo was flanked by her proud parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ibidapo, during the interview. She expressed a strong desire to represent Nigeria at the Olympic Games. “Each competition brings me closer to my dream. I want to inspire other young athletes in Nigeria to pursue their goals and never give up,” she added with a smile.
Chairman of the Oyo State Aquatic Association, Dr. Akande Babatunde Kazeem, congratulated Ibidapo on her silver-medal performance, calling it a moment of pride for the state.
He also encouraged other swimmers to remain focused and committed in their quest for success.
“Swimming will surely bring more medals to Oyo,” Dr. Kazeem affirmed, thanking the coaches and the Oyo State Sports Council for fostering an environment that nurtures emerging talent.
Ibidapo’s triumph not only reignites Oyo State’s presence in national swimming but also signals the rise of a promising young athlete determined to make waves on the global stage.