By Silvernews
Nigeria’s medal prospects at the 4th Africa Youth Games received a major boost with the arrival of 16-year-old British-born swimmer, Aviva Hibbert, who has earned her first international call-up to represent the country in Angola.
The Games, which run from 10 to 20 December 2025, are featuring athletes from all 54 African nations across six host cities, marking the first time the continental event is being staged in a Portuguese-speaking country. Organized by the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA), the competition also serves as a qualifier for the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games.
Hibbert, who trains at Bilston Swimming Club and also swims for the Royal School Academy, Wolverhampton, celebrated her 16th birthday on December 10—the same day the Games officially opened. Born in Wolverhampton, she is eligible to represent Nigeria through her mother, Hon. Celia Osakwe-Hibbert, the Debut Special Adviser on Diaspora Affairs to the Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma.
Her selection followed a series of impressive and consistent performances on the UK swimming circuit, convincing selectors that she possesses the technical strength and competitive discipline needed at continental level. The Nigeria Swimming Federation described her debut appearance as timely, adding that her international exposure would be invaluable to the team.
Hibbert joins a five-swimmer squad and is tipped to excel particularly in the 50m Backstroke, one of her strongest events. Team officials believe her presence will significantly enhance Nigeria’s chances of securing podium finishes in the swimming category.
As the competition intensifies in Angola, all eyes will be on the young and fearless swimmer, whose arrival has injected fresh confidence into Nigeria’s campaign at the Games.
