The President of Nigeria Wrestling Federation (NWF), Daniel Igali Jas reaffirmed the Federation’s commitment to promoting wrestling development nationwide.
Igali stated this in an interview with the New Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Abuja.
He said that there was a need to spread wrestling beyond its traditional strongholds in the country.
According to him, the just-concluded Gov. Douye Diri National Wrestling Classics was a success, with 25 states and 11 clubs participating.
“The growth of the sports is mainly concentrated in Bayelsa.
“We have held competitions at various locations like Rivers, Delta and the FCT but of course more competitions in Bayelsa because of the continuous hosting of Diri’s National Wrestling Classic yearly,” he said.
“I urge other states to promote wrestling bouts in other to develop young talent within the country”.
“Hosting wrestling competitions in their various regions will enable them to raise young wrestlers for the national teams,” he said.
“Whenever, I host any competition, I try to see the importance of spreading medals across various states,” he said.
He said that it was time to spread wrestling across the country, particularly beyond Bayelsa where the sport has gained significant grips .
“This call for action is aimed at promoting wrestling nationwide in other to foster growth and development in other regions.
“This will help provide opportunities for young wrestlers to develop their skills and represent Nigeria globally.
“We are committed to making wrestling accessible to every Nigerian, regardless of geographical location or socio-economic background,” he said.
Igali expressed optimism over Shehu Dikko’s appointment as the Chairman of the National Sports. Commission ( NSC)
He added that in the next four to 12 years, the importance of collaboration and passion for sports would have expanded.
