NWF president harps on grassroots development of wrestling in Nigeria

Posted : 06 November 2024

The Nigeria Wrestling Federation (NWF) has reiterated its commitment to identifying and nurturing the next generation of wrestling champions.

The NWF President, Daniel Igali, made the assertion during the Wrestling Federation's Annual General Meeting in Yenagoa.

Igali hinged the move on the urgent need to replace aging and legendary athletes such as Ifeoma Iheanacho, Blessing Oborodudu, Odunayo Adekuoroye, and Aminat Adeniyi, who have taken wrestling to international heights.

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"As we gather today, let us reflect on the extraordinary journey, a testament to excellence and resilience that spans 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 championship medals.

"However, as we reflect on our past successes, many of our legendary athletes are either aging or retired. And like a seasoned farmer cultivating 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 urge 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 elaborated.

In his remarks, the Chairman of the House Committee on Sports, Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Honorable Tare Porri, who was the special guest of honor, commended the immense contribution of the Wrestling Federation to the development of abundant talent of athletes across the country.

The lawmaker described wrestling as one of Nigeria's major areas of strength heading into international competitions, thus the need for government at all levels to collaborate for its growth.

"Having followed wrestling in major and international events across the world, I'm particularly excited with the impact the 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.

"I call on other state governors to follow this laudable step because wrestling surely has the advantage for Nigeria to excel in global tournaments," Porri said.

NWF president harps on grassroots development of wrestling in Nigeria

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