In a country known for its passion for football and basketball, arm wrestling was once considered a niche sport in Nigeria. However, 2024 marked a turning point in its journey to becoming the nation’s third most popular sport.
With its rise not only in grassroots participation but also in international acclaim, arm wrestling has cemented itself as a symbol of resilience and excellence for Nigeria.
The Spark: African Games Glory
The pivotal moment came at the 2023 African Games held in Accra, Ghana, in March 2024. Nigerian arm wrestlers dominated the competition, climbing to the third position in the nation’s overall gold medal tally.
Athletes like Sarah Matthew and Olubisi Oyewusi captured the imagination of millions.
Sarah Matthew, a 17-year-old prodigy, won two gold medals in the women’s 70 kg category, becoming an overnight sensation.
Olubisi Oyewusi, the captain of the national arm wrestling team, led by example, bagging gold in both left and right arm competitions in the women’s 80 kg category.
Mausi Zannu, the 21-year-old trailblazer, secured Nigeria’s first-ever arm wrestling gold medal in the women’s 55 kg category.
These victories not only elevated Nigeria’s standing at the African Games but also inspired a wave of national pride.
Leadership Driving the Growth
The transformation of arm wrestling in Nigeria owes much to the leadership of Engineer Samuel Olatunji Jackson, President of the Nigeria Armwrestling Federation (NAWF). Under his guidance, the sport has grown exponentially.
Jackson’s vision, coupled with grassroots initiatives and strategic planning, has set the foundation for arm wrestling to thrive across Nigeria.
A Grassroots Revolution
The success at the African Games did not happen overnight. The NAWF, in collaboration with the Nigeria Olympic Committee, had been working tirelessly to develop the sport.
Initiatives like the Nigeria Armwrestling Open Championship and local tournaments in cities like Kuje played a crucial role in unearthing talents from across the country.
The federation also leveraged social media platforms to showcase competitions, turning matches into viral moments that captivated younger audiences.
Media and Celebrity Influence
Arm wrestling’s rise was further fueled by endorsements from Nigerian celebrities and influencers. Viral videos of matches, coupled with commentary from well-known sports figures, helped bring the sport to mainstream attention.
Sponsors also began to invest in the sport, seeing its potential to rival traditional favorites like athletics and boxing.
A New National Identity
By 2024, arm wrestling had grown from a backyard pastime to a sport uniting the nation. Schools introduced arm wrestling clubs, and state governments began funding training programs.
The sport’s inclusivity—requiring minimal equipment and accessible to athletes of varying body types—made it particularly appealing across Nigeria’s diverse communities.
The Impact of Gold
The gold medals from the African Games acted as a catalyst. Arm wrestling became synonymous with national pride, especially in a year when traditional sports like football faced setbacks.
By the end of 2024, arm wrestling ranked as Nigeria’s third most popular sport, behind football and basketball, based on media coverage, sponsorships, and grassroots participation.
The Road Ahead
As Nigeria looks toward hosting international arm wrestling tournaments and preparing for future global competitions, the sport’s trajectory only seems to rise. Athletes like Sarah Matthew and Olubisi Oyewusi are now household names, inspiring the next generation to dream big.
Arm wrestling’s journey to the top of Nigeria’s sports hierarchy is a testament to how dedication, grassroots efforts, and international success can turn an underdog sport into a national powerhouse.
