Lagos State will host the 2026 Swimming Trials for young athletes on March 22, 2026, at the Rowe Park Sports Complex in Yaba .
The event will bring together emerging talents from across the state as the Lagos State Sports Commission works to identify swimmers who can represent Lagos in future national and international competitions .
The trials are open to active male and female swimmers aged 16 and under, with entries expected from clubs, schools and training centres across Lagos .
According to the Commission, the programme is part of a wider plan to deepen grassroots sports development and strengthen the talent pipeline in aquatic sports .
Director General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, Lekan Fatodu, said the trials reflect the state’s commitment to building a strong foundation for sports through structured competitions and systematic athlete identification .
He explained that the initiative is designed to discover and nurture promising swimmers who will proudly represent Lagos at higher levels of competition .
Fatodu also praised the support of Governor Babajide Sanwo Olu, noting that sustained investment in sports facilities and programmes has created more opportunities for young athletes and sports associations .
He said the administration recognises the role of sports in youth development, social engagement and excellence, and has backed policies that help expand development pathways across different disciplines .
Chairman of the Lagos State Aquatics Association, Aderoju Ope Ajayi, described the trials as an important step in strengthening the competitive structure of swimming in the state .
She said the event will give young swimmers the chance to compete in an organised environment and understand the standards expected at higher levels .
Ope Ajayi added that the trials will help coaches and officials assess talent, monitor progress and select athletes who can represent Lagos with distinction .
Swimmers will compete in three age categories which are 15 to 16 years, 13 to 14 years, and 12 years and under .
Races on the schedule include 100m butterfly, 50m freestyle, 50m breaststroke, 100m freestyle, 100m breaststroke, 50m backstroke, 100m backstroke, 50m butterfly, the 4x50m mixed freestyle relay and the 4x50m mixed medley relay .
For many participants, the trials offer a vital opportunity to gain recognition, secure a place in the Lagos State swimming team and take an important step toward a competitive career in the sport .
Athletes and coaches seeking more information have been advised to contact the Lagos State Aquatics Association through official channels for registration details and technical guidelines ahead of the March 22 event .
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