Manny Ita –
The President of the Nigeria Aquatics Federation, Dunkwu Chamberlain, has died at the age of 54 after a brief illness, according to sources within Nigeria’s sports administration and the National Assembly.
Chamberlain, who also served as Deputy Chief of Staff to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, was said to have passed away after a short period of illness that had kept him away from public engagements in recent weeks. His death has triggered an outpouring of tributes from members of the sports community, lawmakers and associates who described him as a committed administrator and advocate for sports development in Nigeria.
Officials within the Nigeria Aquatics Federation confirmed the development on Sunday, noting that the late sports administrator had played a significant role in advancing aquatic sports in the country during his tenure as president of the federation.
A federation official said Chamberlain was widely respected for his efforts to strengthen institutional structures and expand participation in aquatic sports across the country. “He was passionate about developing swimming and other aquatic sports in Nigeria. His leadership brought renewed attention to the federation and its athletes,” the official said.
Chamberlain combined his role in sports administration with active service in government, working closely with the leadership of the House of Representatives as Deputy Chief of Staff to the Speaker. In that capacity, he was involved in legislative coordination and administrative support for the leadership of the lower chamber of the National Assembly.
Associates in the legislature described him as a dedicated public servant who balanced his responsibilities in government with his passion for sports development.
“He was a hardworking and humble man who believed strongly in youth development through sports,” a colleague in the House of Representatives said. “His death is a great loss not only to the sports community but also to those of us who worked with him in the National Assembly.”
Since news of his passing emerged, messages of condolence have continued to pour in from sports officials, athletes and public figures across the country.
Members of the aquatics community said Chamberlain had been instrumental in promoting national competitions and supporting athletes representing Nigeria at international events.
A senior coach within the federation described his passing as a painful moment for the sport. “He always encouraged athletes and officials to aim higher and to represent Nigeria with pride. His support meant a lot to the swimming community,” the coach said.
Family members and close associates have yet to release detailed information regarding funeral arrangements, but sources close to the family said preparations are underway for burial rites in accordance with family and religious traditions.
His death marks a significant loss to Nigeria’s sports administration, where he was regarded as a bridge between sports governance and public service, and many within the sporting community say his contributions to aquatic sports will be remembered for years to come.
