Fifty-five athletes from 11 countries will compete for top honors in the ECOWAS African Traditional Wrestling Tournament in Abuja, with each nation fielding five wrestlers and four technical officials.
The Federal Government also commended the ECOWAS as it officially declared open the 13th edition of the tournament, held in celebration of the regional body’s 50th anniversary.
Speaking at the opening ceremony at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko, emphasized the tournament’s significance.
He highlighted that it marks ECOWAS’ golden jubilee which aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to use sports as a tool for peace, unity, and economic development across the region.
Dikko said: “We are particularly honored that this prestigious event is taking place under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose vision has continued to drive unity, economic growth, and the advancement of sports as a means of fostering regional cohesion. This tournament is a testament to our collective commitment to promoting cultural ties and strengthening the bonds that unite us.”
He emphasised that African cultural heritage serves as a unifying force, with traditional wrestling being an essential part of that legacy.
He said: “Traditional wrestling is more than just a sport; it is a cherished cultural heritage passed down through generations. It embodies the spirit of resilience, strength, and discipline that defines our great continent.”
Dikko commended ECOWAS and the Traditional Sports Federation of Nigeria for their dedication to organizing the tournament, affirming that the National Sports Commission remains committed to leveraging sports for youth empowerment, regional integration, and economic growth in line with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
He stressed the need to develop a robust sports economy that harnesses the economic potential of the industry. Encouraging young athletes to seize the opportunity, he urged them to showcase their talents, create wealth, and build relationships that will inspire future generations.
In his remarks, the Director General of the National Sports Commission, Bukola Olapade, reiterated Tinubu’s commitment to sports as a unifying force for ECOWAS.
He said: “Mr. President is devoted to the unity and solidarity of the ECOWAS sub-region and strongly believes that sports serve as a major unifier to strengthen and enhance that bond.”
Olapade urged the visiting athletes and officials to experience Nigerian hospitality, assuring them of a memorable tournament.
He added, “We are committed to hosting a world-class event where every competitor will have a fair chance to excel and leave with lasting memories of their time in Nigeria.”
Also speaking, the Director of the Economic Youth and Sports Development Center (EYSDC), Ambassador Francis Chuks Njoaguani, described African wrestling as a powerful tool for fostering intercultural exchanges, reducing social tensions, combating violent extremism, and promoting sustainable development.
He said: “The primary objective of the tournament is to break down cultural barriers that hinder collective progress and to work together in building a strong, united, and inclusive region.
“The tournament is expected to bring together wrestlers from across the ECOWAS region, fostering not just competition but also unity and cultural appreciation.”
