Joel Ajayi
The President of the Nigerian Olympic Committee (NOC), Engr. Habu Gumel, has congratulated 17-year-old swimming sensation Abduljabar Adama for his groundbreaking silver medal performance in the men’s 50m butterfly at the World Junior Swimming Championships in Otopeni, Romania.
Adama impressed on the global stage with a time of 23.64 seconds, finishing just 0.10 seconds behind Great Britain’s Dean Fearn, who claimed gold with a time of 23.54 seconds.
This remarkable result marks Nigeria’s first-ever medal at a World Aquatics event, making it a historic achievement in the country’s swimming history.
In a congratulatory message sent on Sunday, Engr. Gumel described Adama’s performance as a major milestone and a proud moment for Nigerian sports.
“There is no doubt that sports in Nigeria are heading in the right direction,” said Gumel.
“I congratulate this young star and the entire Nigerian team for representing the nation with excellence and making us proud.”
He emphasized that Adama’s success has not only proven Nigeria’s potential in international swimming but has also paved the way for future athletes. “This medal shows the world that Nigeria can compete at the highest level in swimming. Abduljabar has not just won silver—he has opened the door for many more young talents to follow.”
Engr. Gumel also urged all stakeholders in the sports sector to work together in fostering development, noting that sports remain a vital tool for national unity, progress, and youth empowerment.
