Teenage swimming sensation Tofunmi Ibidapo has brought an end to Oyo State’s seven-year medal drought in swimming by securing a silver medal in the 200-metre breaststroke at the Gateway Games Ogun 2024.
Competing at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena in Abeokuta, the 13-year-old impressed spectators with a composed performance, fending off strong challenges from rivals representing Delta and Bayelsa states.
This marks Oyo’s first podium finish in a swimming event since the 2018 National Sports Festival in Abuja.
Tofunmi Ibidapo at the Gateway Games 2024. Photo Credit: X
Speaking after her race, the Queen’s School Lagos student revealed that she has been swimming competitively since the age of seven and previously represented Nigeria at the African Swimming Championships in Egypt and the World School Championships in the UK.
“I didn’t win medals at those international events, but they gave me valuable experience,” she said. “Now, I’m more determined than ever to represent Nigeria at the Olympics.”
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Accompanied by her parents, Mr and Mrs Ibidapo, the young swimmer also expressed her hope of inspiring fellow Nigerian youth.
“Every competition brings me closer to my dream. I want to show others that age is no barrier when you work hard and believe in yourself.”
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Chairman of the Oyo State Aquatic Association, Dr Akande Babatunde Kazeem, hailed Ibidapo’s achievement as a turning point.
“This medal is well-deserved. I urge all our swimmers to redouble their efforts—success will follow.”
Ibidapo’s silver has not only reignited Oyo’s hopes for a successful festival campaign but also highlighted the bright future of Nigerian swimming.
