By Dianabasi Effiong
The Nigeria Aquatics Federation has elected new athletes and technical representatives board members in a closely contested election.
Pastor Jasimiel Nseobong Samuel emerged as the Technical Representative by defeating Sunday Tilije 24 votes to 18, while former Olympian Eric Williams won the Athletes’ Representative slot at the poll.
Veteran swimmer, Rachael Tonjor, stepped down in support of Eric Williams before voting began.
Speaking after his victory, Pastor Samuel, a key figure in aquatic sports officiating for decades, described the election as transparent.
He said that he would use his tenure to mentor the next generation of leaders within the federation.
“Work has come again. I openly told them not to call me back in four years because I’m in my 70s.
“What I want to do now is to nurture the next generation. I have selected five young people—two females and three males—and I will mentor them to take over. Even after two years, you will see them functioning,” he said.
He said he would intensify plans for coaches’ and technical officials’ development, a programme he pioneered in Nigeria six years ago.
According to him, the goal is to produce world-class, homegrown athletes trained by Nigerian coaches.
Eric Williams, a two-time Olympian and Commonwealth Games medalist, also expressed his delight over his election as the athletes’ representative.
He praised the process and promised to ensure athletes’ voices were heard at the highest level.
“I want to sincerely thank God for this day. As an Olympian who has represented Nigeria at the 2004 Athens Games, the 2002 Commonwealth Games, and several World Championships, I know the heart of the athlete.
“Whatever is meant for athletes, they will get. The election was fair, transparent, and 100% good.
“Now, we must work hard to ensure more Nigerian athletes qualify for the Olympics, Commonwealth Games, and other international competitions,” Williams said.
The election marks a fresh chapter for the Nigeria Aquatics Federation, with both officials pledging to combine experience and innovation to drive the sport forward at grassroots and elite levels.
