Seyi Tayese, Yenagoa
The Nigeria Wrestling Federation has reiterated its commitment to identify and nurture the generation of wrestling champions in Bayelsa and Nigeria as whole.
The President Nigeria Wrestling Federation, Hon. Daniel Igali, made the assertion during the Wrestling Federation Annual General Meeting in Yenagoa on Tuesday.
Igali hinged the move on the urgent need to replace ageing and legendary athletes such as Ifeoma Iheanacho, Blessing Oborolududu, Odunayo Adekuoroye, Aminat Adeniyi among others who have taken wrestling to international heights.
“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 chairman House Committee on Sports Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Hon. Tare Porri who was the special guest of honour 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 strengths 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 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.
