The President of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation (NWF), Hon. Daniel Igali, described the 3rd Governor Douye Diri Wrestling Classics as a vital opportunity to uncover new wrestling talents who may represent Nigeria on the global stage.
Speaking at the NWF’s Annual General Meeting held at Golden Tulip Hotel in Yenagoa, Igali, who also serves as Bayelsa State’s Commissioner of Sports Development, highlighted the importance of nurturing emerging athletes.
The championship, which has now kicked off, aligns with NWF’s mission to institutionalize talent development, Igali said, referencing the recent success of the Comptroller General of Customs Military National Wrestling Championship held in Abuja.
He emphasized the federation’s commitment to fostering the next generation of wrestlers, noting the need to prepare successors for Nigeria’s current elite athletes.
Reflecting on NWF’s achievements, Igali praised the integration of wrestling as a competitive sport in the Nigeria University Games (NUGA), viewing it as a critical pathway for identifying and developing young athletes.
Over the past 12 years, the federation has supported Nigerian wrestlers’ participation in numerous competitions, resulting in an impressive medal haul of 117 gold, 59 silver, and 84 bronze at continental and international levels.
Dr. Igali expressed appreciation for the unwavering support from Governor Douye Diri and past administrations, stressing that the state’s dedication to sports sponsorship has bolstered Bayelsa’s reputation in the athletics world.
He also congratulated Mallam Shehu Dikko on his appointment as Chairman of the National Sports Commission, further acknowledging the federation’s shared commitment to sports growth and national recognition.
Chairman of the House Committee on Sports, Barrister Tare Porri, echoed Igali’s sentiments, commending wrestling’s role in bringing Nigeria international acclaim. Porri reinforced Bayelsa’s commitment to using sports as a tool to combat youth crime and promote talent development.
Goodwill messages from the Zonal Coordinator of the National Sports Commission, South-South, Mr. Obong Sylvester-Essiet, and NWF Vice Presidents Mr. Chris Amkpila and Dr. Odunola Belo, praised Governor Diri’s lasting impact on sports.
The 3rd Gov. Diri Wrestling Classics, now in its 13th edition overall, will continue in Yenagoa, featuring junior cadet wrestlers with more competitions scheduled until November 9, 2024.
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