Tofunmi Ibidapo, a 13-year-old prodigy, made history for Oyo State by clinching a silver medal in the 200-meter breaststroke at the Gateway Games held at MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta, ending a seven-year medal drought in swimming for the state since the 2018 National Sports Festival in Abuja.
The young swimmer outshone strong competition from Delta and Bayelsa states, finishing second with a commanding performance that sparked joyous celebrations among spectators.
Speaking to journalists post-event, Tofunmi revealed she began competitive swimming at age seven and previously won gold in the 200 meters at the National Youth Games. She also competed internationally at the African Swimming Championship in Egypt and the World School Championship in the UK, gaining valuable experience despite not medaling.
A junior secondary student at Queens School Lagos, Tofunmi, accompanied by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ibidapo, shared her Olympic aspirations. “I want to represent Nigeria and become a better swimmer,” she said, adding, “I hope to inspire other young athletes to chase their dreams.”
Dr. Akande Babatunde Kazeem, Chairman of the Oyo State Aquatic Association, praised Tofunmi’s achievement and urged other swimmers to double their efforts. He credited the Oyo State Sports Council and coaches for fostering new talent, expressing confidence in more medals to come.