Four top Nigerian wrestlers has been denied visas despite fulfilling all accreditation and travel requirements ahead of the 2025 World Wrestling Championships in Zagreb, Croatia.
The decision by the Croatian authorities has raised concerns about fairness, inclusivity, and the integrity of international sports.
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The affected athletes are Genesis Miessinne Mercy, Ogunsanya Tolulope Christianah, Ojo Damola Hannah, and Izolo Stephen Simon.
All four are highly accomplished wrestlers, boasting multiple African titles and, in some cases, Olympic experience.
Their absence would be a huge blow to Nigeria’s chances at the Championships, scheduled for September 13–21, 2025.
Croatian authorities reportedly refused the visas on the grounds of “doubts” over the wrestlers’ intention to return to Nigeria.
However, the Nigeria Wrestling Federation (NWF) has described the reasoning as unjust and misplaced.
Igali stressed that the athletes are officially accredited by United World Wrestling (UWW) and are legitimate representatives of their country.
Reacting to the setback, NWF President, Hon. Baraladei Daniel Igali, has written directly to the UWW President, seeking urgent intervention to resolve the matter.
Igali’s letter warned that such discriminatory visa practices risk undermining the principles of universality and merit-based participation that global sports are built on.
With Nigeria’s contingent scheduled to depart this weekend, the clock is ticking for a resolution.
The UWW President has been urged to step in immediately with Croatian authorities to secure the visas and ensure the athletes are not denied their rightful place on the global stage.
