At the inaugural African School Games held in Lagos in October, the podium gleamed with gold, silver, and bronze. Yet, it was the radiant smile of a young girl draped in multiple medals that truly lit up the arena.
That girl was Maryam Muhammed, a 12-year-old pupil of British International School, Lagos, who emerged as one of the standout stars of the competition, winning three gold, four silver, and 1 bronze medal.
“It feels amazing,” Maryam told PUNCH Sports Extra with quiet confidence that belied her age.
“All the hard work and support from my parents, coaches, and friends are paying off.”
Though she also won a medal in the girls’ 800m race, Maryam’s real home is in the water.
“Swimming is my favourite. I started when I was about four,” she said. “I stopped for a while because I wasn’t consistent, but I still trained whenever I could.”
Her full comeback began at age 10, and since then, she hasn’t looked back.
“When I turned 10, I started training seriously again and competing regularly. I represented Nigeria at the African Zone 2 Championships in Ghana, where I won six bronze medals,” she recalled proudly.
That competition, which featured swimmers aged 14 to 18, was a defining milestone for her — the youngest competitor at the event.
“Despite her age, Maryam competed fiercely in her individual races and contributed to Nigeria’s team medals,” said Mr. Taiwo Oriss, Secretary-General of the Nigeria Aquatic Federation.
Before that, she had been a key member of Team Lagos at the 2025 National Youth Games in Asaba, where she won four gold medals and the National U-15 Swimming Championship in Abuja, where the team dominated with 44 medals — 14 gold, 16 silver, and 14 bronze. Their outstanding performance also helped Lagos claim the top spot on the National Youth Games medals table for the first time.
Behind Maryam’s success is an unwavering support system of coaches, mentors, and family — especially her parents, who never miss a race.
“Watching Maryam represent her school at the African School Games and Lagos at the National Youth Games has been an incredible joy,” her mom, Khadijat Muhammed, shared.
“Her dedication and composure make every early morning and every sacrifice worthwhile.”
Maryam’s focus and discipline are inspired by her idol, Katie Ledecky, the American swimming legend with nine Olympic golds and 21 world titles.
“She’s so focused and determined. Whatever she sets her mind to, she achieves it,” Maryam said with admiration.
That same determination fuels her own dream — to represent Nigeria at the Olympic Games.
“I see myself at the Brisbane 2032 Olympics, winning medals for Nigeria,” she declared confidently.
Her parents know the road ahead won’t be easy, but remain committed.
“It takes a lot — time, effort, and resources — but seeing her growth, confidence, and sportsmanship makes it worth every bit. We’re deeply grateful to her coaches and school for believing in her.”
At just 12, Maryam is already swimming in the lanes of greatness — and the world is beginning to take notice.
