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The 2nd edition of the Governor’s Age-Group Swimming Championship has been successfully staged in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, with strong emphasis on youth development and grassroots sports growth.
The championship, held at the George Innih Stadium Complex Ilorin, Kwara State today, 14th of February 2026. It was sponsored by the Kwara State Government under the leadership of AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, and supported by the Kwara State Sports Commission in collaboration with the Kwara State Swimming Association.
A major highlight of the championship was the presentation of medals and cash rewards to outstanding swimmers by the Executive Chairman of the Kwara State Sports Commission, Bolakale Mogaji, who represented the Executive Governor of Kwara State at the event. His presence and role at the medal ceremony underscored the state government’s commitment to motivating young athletes and rewarding excellence in sports.
Earlier, the tournament was formally declared open by Honorable Abdullahi Yunusa Lade, the Permanent Member II representing Kwara North Senatorial District at the Kwara State Sports Commission, who performed the duty on behalf of the Executive Chairman.
In opening remarks, the Chairman of the Kwara State Swimming Association, Owolabi Agbaji Wopa, commended the state government and Kwara State Sports Commission for sustaining the championship, noting that the initiative provides a vital platform for discovering and nurturing young swimming talents capable of representing Kwara State and Nigeria at national and international levels.
The event also attracted dignitaries, including representatives of the Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs and the Honourable Commissioner for Youths, alongside Permanent members of the Sports Commission, the Sports Commission Secretary, Mr. Haruna Tsado; the director of sports, Mallam Ibrahim Oladele Bako; the Chief Financial Accountant, Mr. Gidado Abdulwahab; the Head of Organising Kwara State Sports Commission; Mr. Hamidu Olowo; CEO Sportspro News, Mr Bayo Issa; Kwara United Secretary, Mr Bello; Head of Players’ transfer and Registration of KFA, Olaide Ahli among others.
The Kwara State Government, through the Sports Commission and the Swimming Association, reaffirmed its resolve to continue investing in grassroots sports as a strategic pathway to building a strong and competitive pool of athletes for the future.
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