The Nigeria Wrestling Federation has reaffirmed its dedication to identifying and developing the next generation of wrestling champions.
At Tuesday’s Wrestling Federation Annual General Meeting in Yenagoa, the statement was delivered by Honourable Daniel Igali, President of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation.
Igali’s decision was based on the pressing necessity to replace aged and iconic wrestlers who have achieved international success, such Ifeoma Iheanacho, Blessing Oborolududu, Odunayo Adekuoroye, and Aminat Adeniyi.
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“As we gather today, let us reflect on the extraordinary journey, a testament to excellence and resilience that span 12 remarkable years.
“The Wrestling Federation has evolved from modest beginnings into a formidable force in the realm of sports, earning both national and international accolades.”
Nigeria has emerged as an indomitable presence in women’s freestyle wrestling, where we have successfully defended our championship title at the African Championships an impressive 14 times.
“Names like Ifeoma Iheanacho became our first two-time world medalist; Blessing Oborududu made Nigeria proud by securing our first ever Olympic medal in Tokyo 2020 while Odunayo Adekuoroye has graced the podium with four world championships medals.”
“However, as we reflect on our past successes, many of our legendary athletes are either ageing or retired and like a seasoned farmer cultivating a new soil, we must understand that replacing such extraordinary talents requires time and substantial investment.”
“We must become stewards of our sports, focusing on grassroots development and integrating long-term strategies into our community’s fabric.
“I urged all stakeholders to remain steadfast and committed as we navigate this transition; the path ahead may be challenging, but our legacy depends on it.” Igali elaborates.
In his remarks, the honourable Tare Porri, the chairman of the Sports House Committee of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly and the special guest of honour, praised the Wrestling Federation’s enormous commitment to the growth of the nation’s many talented athletes.
According to the legislator, wrestling is one of Nigeria’s main competitive advantages going into international tournaments, thus cooperation from all tiers of government is necessary to support its development.
“Having followed Wrestling in major and international events across the world, I’m particularly excited with the impact Wrestling Federation has had, which I have witnessed.”
“Wrestling has consistently given Nigeria a bragging right in notable competitions both in Africa and around the globe and I want to thank His Excellency, Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri for being generous in the sponsorship of wrestling events and I call on other state governors to follow this laudable steps because Wrestling surely has the advantage for Nigeria to excel in global tournaments.” Porri said.