In a recent statement, the President of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation (NWF), Daniel Igali, has credited the proactive support of the Federal Government for the federation’s outstanding performance at the 2025 African Wrestling Championships held in Mauritius. Igali, speaking during a press briefing in Abuja, emphasized that the government’s timely intervention and funding played a critical role in ensuring Nigeria’s wrestlers excelled on the continental stage.
The Nigerian contingent delivered an impressive performance, clinching a total of 16 medals, including 8 gold, 5 silver, and 3 bronze, to finish top in several categories of the competition. The achievement has been hailed across the country as a significant boost to Nigeria’s international sporting reputation and a clear indication of the potential that lies within the nation’s athletes when given proper support.
Federal Government’s Vital Role
According to Igali, who is also a former Olympic gold medalist, the successes recorded would not have been possible without the Federal Government’s intervention. He highlighted how the Ministry of Sports Development, under the leadership of the Honorable Minister John Enoh, ensured that funding was made available promptly for training camps, logistics, and travel arrangements.
“This achievement is a collective victory, and the role played by the Federal Government cannot be overstated. Without their timely support, especially in a time of economic challenges, our athletes would not have had the necessary preparation to compete and dominate at the African level,” Igali said.
He pointed out that earlier approval of budgetary allocations allowed the wrestlers to undergo high-performance training in Bayelsa State and Kaduna, which was instrumental in refining their skills and boosting their confidence ahead of the competition.
Athletes Shine on the Continental Stage
The NWF boss further commended the athletes for their discipline, commitment, and resilience. He singled out standout performances by Odunayo Adekuoroye, who reclaimed her continental title in the women’s 57kg category, and Blessing Oborududu, who continued her dominance in the 68kg category.
“These athletes are true patriots. They represent the spirit of Nigeria — resilient, fearless, and determined. Their success is a testament to what can be achieved when talent meets opportunity,” he said.
The competition in Mauritius featured athletes from over 20 African nations, making the victories even more significant. Igali also praised the technical crew, coaches, and medical teams who worked tirelessly to ensure the athletes were in peak condition.
Looking Ahead: The Road to the 2025 World Championships
With the African Wrestling Championships concluded, attention now shifts to preparations for the 2025 World Wrestling Championships and, ultimately, the 2026 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. Igali expressed optimism about Nigeria’s chances at the global level but noted that sustained support would be crucial.
“We have set the bar high in Africa, but the world stage is a different battlefield. We must begin preparations immediately. We are appealing once again to the Federal Government and private sector partners to invest more in wrestling. The potential for Olympic medals is very real, but the athletes need continuous exposure, international training camps, and quality competitions to stay at their best,” he stated.
Igali also revealed plans by the NWF to organize a series of national trials and international friendlies to fine-tune the team ahead of upcoming global events.
Calls for Private Sector Involvement
While commending the government, Igali also called on the private sector to play a more active role in the development of sports in Nigeria. He emphasized that corporate sponsorships could ease the financial burden on the government and ensure more consistent support for athletes across different sports disciplines.
“In other countries, sports federations enjoy robust private sponsorship. Nigerian companies need to realize the power of sports in uniting and projecting the country positively to the world. Wrestling, in particular, has consistently brought glory to Nigeria, and it deserves every support it can get,” he said.
Celebrations and Recognition
Following their return from Mauritius, the triumphant wrestlers were received warmly by fans and sporting authorities. Plans are also underway for a formal reception in Abuja, where President Bola Tinubu is expected to personally commend the athletes for their historic achievement.
As Nigeria basks in the glow of yet another continental triumph, the message from the wrestling fraternity is clear: with the right support, Nigerian athletes can achieve even greater heights, bringing honor and pride to the nation.
The NWF’s latest victory serves as a reminder of the transformative power of investment in sports — an area that, if properly harnessed, could serve as a vehicle for national unity, youth empowerment, and international prestige.
