OAU Dolphins Make Waves Despite Funding, Facility Challenges

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             Adedoyin Onajobi 

The Obafemi Awolowo University Swimming Team (OAU Dolphins), has continued to record impressive performances in inter-university competitions, despite persistent challenges related to funding and facilities.

OAU Dolphins, founded on March 1, 2014, currently being coached by Adeyemi Moses (EJA), an alumnus of the university and a member of the Nigeria Aquatics Federation. Since its establishment, the Dolphins have grown into one of the most competitive athletic teams in the university.

According to the head coach, training sessions, usually held at the university’s swimming pool thrice on a weekly basis, and the team currently relies on one functional swimming facility, as the Staff Club pool is no longer operational, while training outside the university environment remains financially demanding.

Speaking of its achievements, the Dolphins have recorded notable successes across various competitions. In fact the team won nine medals with just two swimmers at the most recent Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA) in Jos. Similarly, the Dolphins secured seven medals at NUGA 2017, seven medals at NUGA 2022, hosted by the University of Lagos (UNILAG).

 Beyond NUGA, the team has participated in competitions organised by WAASU, Fédération Internationale de Sport Universitaire (FISU), and other national swimming meets. In April 2025, the Dolphins achieved an impressive haul of 20 medals in a swimming competition sponsored by Flutterwave in Ibadan, with swimmers like Bertrand, Divine, Shalom, Pius, and Jolade featured prominently in these outings.

Looking ahead, the OAU Dolphins remain focused and prepared, with several competitions lined up, including an event scheduled for February and upcoming international meets in Cairo, Egypt.

Speaking on students’ participation in sports activities, EJA noted that many students miss out on the benefits of sports due to misconceptions about balancing academics and athletics. 

In his words, “quite a number of students lose their potential by not participating in sports. To read and recreate is also education, as such, sports, be it swimming, football, amongst others should be encouraged among students.” He further emphasized that the team ensures that no sporting activities clash with academic schedules, stressing that academics remains the students’ top priority.

Responding to a question about funding, the Head Coach explained how the team’s financial support is largely provided by the Alumnus of the team, with notable support from the team’s Grand Patron, Professor Adedoyin, of the Department of Medical Rehabilitation. Although, the university management offers a somewhat partial assistance, however, no significant support from the Students’ Union.

Speaking further, he added that the recruitment into the team remains open to all students, particularly freshmen who typically have more flexible schedules. However, the team highlighted the absence of a structured recruitment programme for newly admitted students

The team’s female captain, Ibukunoluwa Akanji, expressed the joy she derives from leading her teammates to winning competitions and medals, stating that such experiences brings her immense fulfilment of her vision as the captain.

Ibukunoluwa also emphasized the need for stronger support and adequate recognition by the university, seeking financial support from individuals and the management. She also pointed out that most swimmers, despite their achievements are not even recognized by their peers and even the management.

Despite existing challenges, members of the OAU Dolphins remain optimistic, expressing confidence that improved facilities, increased funding, and greater institutional recognition would further enhance the team’s performance and visibility.


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