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By Joe Apu
Water sports in Nigeria are increasingly emerging as a catalyst for growth within the country’s blue economy, creating jobs, stimulating businesses, and nurturing athletes capable of bringing international recognition to the nation.
This was highlighted at the Navy Sailing Club’s 2025 end-of-year activities, which featured water sports competitions, project commissioning, and induction of new members.
Speaking as the special guest of honour at the occasion, Rear Admiral I. E. Shehu described the event as a strong demonstration of progress in Nigeria’s water sports sector. He noted that organised water sports are fast gaining prominence and positioning themselves as an important component of the blue economy, with the potential to generate employment, support small and medium-scale businesses, and encourages active youth participation as professional athletes.
Rear Admiral Shehu emphasised that sustained engagement in water sports can produce elite athletes who will represent Nigeria at international levels, thereby earning laurels for the country.
He linked the growing interest in the sector to the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the blue economy initiative, stressing that sports development on Nigeria’s waterways aligns with national economic and human capacity goals.
As part of his contribution to manpower development at the Navy Sailing Club, the Rear Admiral announced his commitment to sponsor a race in the coming year, describing the gesture as a practical step towards encouraging participation, improving skills, and supporting talent development within the club.
The Club Commodore, Captain Festus Adewuyi while reacting to questions on the event, said the club’s fourth-quarter and end-of-year activities were designed to promote water sports as both a recreational and economic venture. He explained that the programme included boat races and swimming competitions for children and adults, aimed at broadening participation and discovering new talents.
Captain Adewuyi highlighted the achievements of his administration, which assumed office on 30th August 2025, including the commissioning of a new pavilion and the renovation of the club’s taverns. He noted that the successful and incident-free 2025 water sports season reflected improved organisation, safety standards, and growing enthusiasm among participants.
At the end of the event, the athlete sailors were awarded prizes while comedians and dancers entertained guests.
