Following Team Nigeria’s disappointing performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics, Hon. Daniel Igali, President of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation, has urged the federal government to take sports development seriously.
Speaking at a press briefing at the ongoing 8th National Youth Games in Asaba on Wednesday, Igali highlighted the negative impact of the “fire brigade approach” to tournaments on the progress of sports in Nigeria.
Igali emphasized that for Nigeria to succeed in international events, the focus must shift to age-grade competitions, with deliberate steps taken to eliminate age cheating.
He stressed that the primary goal of these tournaments is being undermined by such practices.
“The youth games are becoming a failed projection because those responsible for screening athletes have turned it into the highest bidder game,” Igali stated.
He called for a proactive approach to sports development and praised the Delta State Government for hosting the Youth Games, despite expressing concerns about age cheating.
Igali also advocated for the promotion of grassroots sports, criticizing some states for their win-at-all-cost mentality, which discredits the efforts of others.
He announced that the Wrestling Federation would invite the top six wrestlers from the ongoing 8th National Youth Games in Asaba to join the national camp in Bayelsa for intensive training and nutrition.
In another announcement, Igali confirmed that he would not be contesting for the position of president when his tenure ends next year.
Having served as president of the NWF for 12 years, Igali noted that the constitution does not permit a fifth term, and the Federation will seek a competent successor.
Despite stepping down, Igali pledged to remain involved in the activities of the Wrestling Federation, contributing to its growth and development.
