The President of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation, Daniel Igali, has expressed confidence in the nation’s wrestlers as they prepare for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, France.
Igali stated that the event, dubbed “Paris 2024,” offers a new opportunity for the athletes to make history for Nigeria.
Igali, who also serves as the Commissioner for Sports Development in Bayelsa State, assured that the federation is aiming for more than just participation. “The wrestling federation is going to Paris to compete and win laurels, not just to participate,” he declared at the official unveiling of the wrestlers.
He emphasized that the 2024 Olympics is a chance for Nigerian wrestlers to clinch gold in all weight categories, highlighting the federation’s thorough preparation for the games. Igali also appreciated the support from Governor Douye Diri, the President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) Engr. Habu Gumel, and the Minister of Sports Development Senator John Enoch.
Igali also acknowledged contributions from Chief of Defense Staff General Christopher Musa, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Development Mrs. Grace Alagoa, Director of Sports Sir Braveman Wodi, and the media.
Goodwill messages from the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Nimibofa Ayawei, Chairman of the House Committee on Sports Barr. Tare Porri, and Chairman of the Bayelsa State Table Tennis Association Mr. Ama-Ebi Ebikpolade, encouraged the wrestlers to represent Nigeria well at the Olympics.
In interviews, wrestlers Blessing Oborududu and Esther Kolawole expressed their readiness and optimism for a podium finish at the games.
The team, which includes six wrestlers, five female and one male, will compete in various weight categories:
- Ogunsanye Christiana (53kg)
- Kolawole Esther (62kg)
- Odunayo Adekuoroye (57kg)
- Hannah Reuben (76kg)
- Blessing Oborududu (68kg)
- Mutuwa Ashton (125kg)
The 2024 Olympic Games are set to take place in Paris from July 26 to August 11, 2024.
