16-year-old India Kate Brown, a UK-based swimmer, will represent Nigeria at the 17th Africa Aquatics championships, bringing to life the Nigeria Sports Commission’s plan to create a pathway for Nigerian athletes born abroad.
Brown, who trains at Mount Kelly Swim Academy, holds a personal best of 2:22.01 in the 200m butterfly and recently recorded 2:22.60, placing her among the emerging prospects to watch at the competition.
Her inclusion reflects the growing impact of the National Sports Commission’s Invited Diaspora Athletes (IDA) Initiative, championed by NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko and Director General Bukola Olopade.
The invited Diaspora Athletes (IDA) Initiative aims to integrate Nigerian-born and Nigerian-descendant athletes into the national sports framework.
The Nigeria Aquatics Federation announced its official delegation to the 17th Africa Aquatics Championships scheduled to take place in Oran, Algeria, from May 5th to 10th, 2026.
Furthermore, the 10-member delegation comprises eight swimmers and two officials who will represent the country in the continental competition.
17th Africa Aquatics championships: Team Nigeria
Ebingha Colins Obi
Opute Clinton
Ijomoni Ivan Anthony E. C.
Oka Dorcas Abeng
Alfred-Olajide Boluwatife A.
Ibidapo Michelle Oluwatofunmi
India Kate Brown
Hibbert Aviva Sophie Olamma
Officials:
Loya Barakumo Goodluck – Coach
Oriss Taiwo Dennis – Secretary General
Also, the team features a mix of promising young talents, including 14-year-old Ibidapo Michelle Oluwatofunmi
The championships will bring together top swimmers from across Africa, providing a platform for Nigeria’s athletes to compete at the highest level and showcase their abilities.
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Aquatics Federation expresses confidence in the team’s preparedness and commitment as they aim to deliver strong performances in Algeria.