NAqF partners with local firm to boost grassroots swimming development.

Catherine Enaohwo, chief executive officer of Thrive Resource Centre, has reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to supporting the Nigeria Aquatics Federation through a sustainable strategy focused on grassroots talent development and long-term partnerships.

NAqF unveiled the centre in Abuja on Monday as part of efforts to strengthen its partnership base and commercial growth.

In an interview with journalists, Ms Enaohwo said the consultancy would prioritise developing a clear structure for early identification of young swimmers, proper talent nurturing and exposure to international competitions.

According to her, the approach will enable swimmers to be grouped effectively and prepared for long-term development.

“Our work as consultants begins with designing a structure that allows us to identify swimmers at a young age, nurture them properly and ensure they gain international exposure,” she said.

Ms Enaohwo said the centre’s strength in human capital development, as well as its extensive public and private sector networks, would be leveraged to secure sustainable sponsorships and partnerships for the federation.

She explained that the organisation was targeting enduring partnerships rather than one-off sponsorships to ensure consistent funding for local and international programmes.

“We are looking for long-term partnerships, similar to global models where value is created for both parties over time. Our focus is sustainability,” Ms Enaohwo said.

The president of the federation, Chamberlin Dunkwu, described partnerships as critical to the successful implementation of the federation’s long-term vision.

Mr Dunkwu formally introduced the centre as NAqF’s marketing consultant, saying the organisation would drive the federation’s sponsorship and commercial activities.

“Thrive Resource was carefully selected based on its proven track record, extensive strategic network and broad sectoral coverage. Its experience aligns with the ambitions of the federation,” he said.

According to Mr Dunkwu, the partnership aims to attract credible partners who share the federation’s long-term vision for sports development.

He said the collaboration would strengthen NAqF’s capacity to fund grassroots programmes, improve athlete welfare and create sustainable value for stakeholders.

Mr Dunkwu added that the federation was focused on building a future-ready structure that would develop athletes holistically, empower coaches, strengthen technical capacity and instil discipline and life skills through sport.

“Swimming is more than medals. It is about safety, health, opportunity and hope,” he said.

He also said competitions scheduled for March and April 2026 in Abuja and Lagos would showcase emerging talents and highlight the future of aquatics in Nigeria.