Fifty-five wrestlers from 11 countries will be competing for top honours in the ECOWAS African Traditional Wrestling Tournament holding in Abuja.
Each participating nation is expected to field five wrestlers, and four technical officials.
Nigeria applauded the commitment of the ECOWAS nations in participating in the tournament, as the 13th edition of the competition was officially declared open in commemoration of the regional body’s 50th anniversary.
Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dikko, while speaking at the opening ceremony held at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, emphasised the significance of the tournament.
He said the marking of the golden jubilee of the sub-regional body, aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to fuster peace, unity, and economic development through sports across the country.
“We are particularly honoured that this prestigious event is taking place under the leadership of President Bola 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,” Dikko said.
He also emphasised that African cultural heritage serves as a unifying force, with traditional wrestling being an essential part of that legacy.
“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,” he said.
Dikko commended ECOWAS, and the Traditional Sports Federation of Nigeria, for their dedication to organising 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.
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Director General of the NSC, Bukola Olapade, reiterated President Tinubu’s commitment to sports, as a unifying force for ECOWAS.
“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,” the director general said.
Olapade urged the visiting athletes and officials to experience Nigerian hospitality, assuring them of a memorable tournament.
Also, Director of the Economic Youth and Sports Development Center (EYSDC), Ambassador Francis Njoaguani, described African traditional wrestling as a powerful tool for fostering inter-cultural exchanges, reducing social tensions, combating violent extremism, and promoting sustainable development.
“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,” he said.
