The President of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation (NWF), Daniel Ighali, has lauded the recently concluded All Africa Games and Olympic qualifiers trials, deeming them a success. Ighali expressed his commendation at the conclusion of the two-day national wrestling trials held in Yenagoa, the capital of Bayelsa State.
The former Olympic champion expressed satisfaction with the nation’s wrestlers, particularly the young athletes who distinguished themselves during the trials. Ighali was pleased to note that every weight class was fiercely contested over the two-day event.
He emphasized the importance of thorough preparation for the upcoming competitions, stating that with adequate training, the wrestlers would perform exceptionally well in the All-Africa Games. Ighali stressed that athletes need a minimum of a month’s camping to compete favourably at the continental level.
Acknowledging the support from the Bayelsa State government in hosting the trials, Ighali expressed admiration for the rapid growth of young wrestlers, singling out Harrison Israel and Stephen Simon for exceeding expectations. He disclosed that 18 athletes have qualified for the All-Africa Games, while 22 will compete in the Africa Wrestling Championship in Alexandria, Egypt. Nigeria is set to field a complete female team, aiming to replicate last year’s victory in the female category in Hammamet, Tunisia.
Ighali praised the officiating officials and the technical team for their professionalism in ensuring the smooth conduct of the trials. Meanwhile, Blessing Oborodudu, a 12-time Africa champion and Tokyo 2020 silver medalist, has secured a spot in the upcoming All Africa Games in Accra, Ghana.
