In a bid to bolster the grassroots development of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) in Nigeria, the Nigeria Mixed Martial Arts Federation (NMMAF) has called upon coaches, fighters, and practitioners of the sport to embrace its training programs.
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The Federation’s Technical Director, Shihan Victor Akhimien, emphasized the significance of adopting modern MMA techniques, asserting that this approach could contribute to the economic growth of Nigeria by unearthing talented athletes and showcasing their skills on international platforms.
During a meeting organized for NMMAF stakeholders, Akhimien, a seventh-degree karate black belt holder, unveiled the federation’s plan to hold two major national seminars and championships.
These events are slated for August 12 in Edo State and August 17 in Lagos, with the primary objective of identifying and nurturing talents that will represent Nigeria in both local and international championships.
Coaches and athletes have been strongly encouraged to actively participate in the seminars and workshops to attain certifications that would authorize them to operate officially as coaches, referees, officials, and amateur or professional athletes.
The NMMAF aims to empower individuals within the sport and integrate them into the federation’s scheme, considering their experience and technical expertise over the years.
Shihan Victor Akhimien, who also serves as the Chairman of Lagos State’s Mixed Martial Arts Association and a lecturer of Mixed Martial Arts at the Nigeria Institute of Sports (NIS), announced that this opportunity for waivers and integration would remain open for the time being, possibly closing by year-end.
Upon entry, coaches and athletes will be evaluated based on Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), which have been set reasonably and attainably. The federation plans to keep a comprehensive record of every participant’s progress through dedicated ICT support on their website and social media platforms.
Appreciating the efforts of MMA coaches in promoting the sport by taking athletes to participate in local and international events, Akhimien assured them of the federation’s unwavering support.
NMMAF remains committed to serving all stakeholders in the MMA community while ensuring the career growth of coaches and fighters locally and on the international stage, in line with the standards set by the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF).
With a well-structured approach, the NMMAF envisions exporting talented fighters abroad as top-class amateur and professional athletes, as well as Class A coaches or referees.
The federation’s achievements have been attributed to the vision and concerted hard work of its president, vice president, and other board members, who have diligently worked towards advancing the sport’s development in Nigeria.
