Governor of Bayelsa State, Douye Diri, has declared the 4th Governor Douye Diri National Wrestling Classics closed after a week of intense competition in Yenagoa, with athletes leaving the tournament with prize money and renewed motivation.
Speaking at the closing ceremony on Wednesday, Diri commended participants for the high level of competition, describing all athletes as winners regardless of their final standings. He urged those who did not secure podium finishes to remain focused and use the experience to improve their performance in future competitions.
The governor noted that Nigeria, particularly Bayelsa State, continues to serve as a strong base for the development of wrestling talent. He expressed confidence that the country would produce more world champions in the near future.
He said that wrestling remains one of Nigeria’s strongest sports at the continental level and stressed the need to build on existing successes to achieve greater global recognition.
The President of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation, represented by First Vice President Chris Amkpila, praised the Bayelsa State Government for its consistent support for wrestling development. He noted that the 2026 edition of the tournament recorded significant improvements in organisation and athlete welfare.
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According to him, collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Service ensured the provision of accommodation for athletes, creating a games village environment that enhanced comfort. He added that participants also benefited from free meals and transportation to competition venues.
Amkpila commended the hospitality of the people of Bayelsa State and expressed optimism that the federation would return for future editions of the championship.
In his remarks, the Bayelsa State Commissioner for Sports Development, Daniel Igali, described the tournament as a landmark event in Nigerian sports. He revealed that, for the first time, athletes received participation fees in a national wrestling championship.
Igali explained that beyond individual medals, substantial prize money was awarded to top-performing states and clubs, a move he said would encourage greater participation and raise the standard of competition.
He acknowledged the contributions of partners and stakeholders, noting that their support was critical to the success of the event. He also called for sustained collaboration as the federation plans more activities within the year.
At the end of the tournament, Team Bayelsa emerged overall champions, while Dynamite Club and the Nigerian Army secured second and third positions respectively.
The successful hosting of the championship further strengthens Bayelsa’s growing reputation as a major hub for sports development in Nigeria.
