Grassroots development, long-term strategies, key to wrestling success, says NWF President

By Tosin Omojola

Wrestling remains one of Nigeria’s strongest sports on the international stage, and the Nigeria Wrestling Federation (NWF) is focused on identifying and nurturing the next generation of world-class wrestlers.

The commitment was emphasized by NWF President, Honourable Daniel Igali, during the Federation’s Annual General Meeting held in Yenagoa on Tuesday.

Igali highlighted the Federation’s plans to prepare successors for Nigeria’s iconic wrestlers, such as Ifeoma Iheanacho, Blessing Oborududu, Odunayo Adekuoroye, and Aminat Adeniyi, who have represented Nigeria with distinction.

“As we gather today, let us reflect on our extraordinary journey, a testament to excellence and resilience that spans 12 remarkable years. The Wrestling Federation has grown from modest beginnings into a formidable force in the realm of sports, achieving both national and international acclaim,” Igali stated.

Now serving as the Sports Commissioner in Bayelsa State, Igali expressed confidence that Nigeria would continue to excel in wrestling.

“Nigeria has become an indomitable presence in women’s freestyle wrestling, successfully defending our championship title at the African Championships 14 times. Ifeoma Iheanacho became our first two-time world medalist, Blessing Oborududu made history as our first Olympic medalist in Tokyo 2020, and Odunayo Adekuoroye has earned four world championship medals,” Igali noted.

However, Igali acknowledged the challenges posed by the retirement of legendary athletes.

“As we celebrate our successes, we must recognize that replacing these extraordinary talents requires time and substantial investment,” he said. “We must focus on grassroots development and embed long-term strategies into our communities. I urge all stakeholders to remain steadfast as we navigate this transition; our legacy depends on it.”

The Special Guest of Honour, Honourable Tare Porri, Chairman of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly’s Committee on Sports, praised the Wrestling Federation’s efforts in developing talent across Nigeria.

He described wrestling as one of Nigeria’s key strengths in international competitions, underscoring the importance of government support for the sport.

“Having followed wrestling on the global stage, I am thrilled with the impact of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation,” Porri said. “Wrestling consistently brings Nigeria recognition at major competitions both in Africa and worldwide.

“I thank His Excellency, Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State, for his commitment to sponsoring wrestling events, and I call on other state governors to follow his example, as wrestling holds great potential for Nigeria in global tournaments.”