Chief Daniel Igali, President of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation and Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development in Bayelsa State, has lauded the recently concluded National wrestling trials for the All Africa Games and Olympic qualifiers as highly competitive.
The trials, held in Yenagoa, the capital of Bayelsa State, saw Nigeria’s wrestlers vying for spots in the upcoming All Africa Games in Accra, Ghana, and the Olympic qualifiers in Alexandria, Egypt.
Expressing his satisfaction with the event, Igali emphasized the impressive performance of the nation’s wrestlers, particularly the young athletes who showcased their talent during the two-day trials.
He commended the rigorous competition in every weight class, highlighting the need for adequate preparation to ensure Nigeria’s wrestlers excel on the continental stage.
Igali stressed the importance of proper training camps, noting that sustained preparation is essential for athletes to compete successfully against their peers.
He also extended his appreciation to the Bayelsa State government for their support in hosting the trials and emphasized the remarkable progress of young wrestlers like Harrison Israel and Stephen Simon, who exceeded expectations.
The NWF president announced that eighteen athletes have qualified for the All Africa Games, while twenty-two athletes will represent Nigeria at the Africa wrestling championship in Alexandria, Egypt.
He confirmed that Nigeria would field a full female team, aiming to replicate their success in the female category from the previous year’s tournament in Hammamet, Tunisia.
Furthermore, notable wrestlers secured their spots in the All Africa Games during the trials.
Blessing Oborodudu, a twelve-time Africa champion and Tokyo 2020 silver medalist, dominated her opponent Tokere Appah of Bayelsa with a pinfall victory, securing her place in the upcoming competition.
Other wrestlers like Ebi Biogos, Hannah Reuben, Soso Tamarau, Ashton Mutuwa, Harrison Isreal, Stephen Simon, and Braveman Pere also clinched qualifications.
The trials were marked by intense competition and standout performances, with wrestlers showcasing their skills and determination to represent Nigeria on the continental stage.
Igali commended the officiating officials and the technical team for their professionalism in ensuring the smooth conduct of the trials, setting the stage for Nigeria’s wrestlers to shine at the All Africa Games and beyond.
