The Comptroller-General of Customs and President of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation (NWF), Adewale Adeniyi, has charged Nigeria’s national wrestling team to deliver outstanding performances and return with medals at the forthcoming African Wrestling Championships scheduled for May 2026 in Alexandria, Egypt.
Adeniyi gave the charge on Tuesday at the Nigeria Customs Service Headquarters in Abuja, where he hosted athletes, coaches, and officials ahead of their departure for the continental competition.
Congratulating the wrestlers for earning national selection, Adeniyi described their qualification as both a privilege and a weighty responsibility, urging them to compete with a strong sense of national pride.
“You are no longer representing your individual states but the entire nation. You carry the hopes of Nigeria, and that must inspire you to give your best,” he said.
The NWF President emphasised the importance of motivation and mental readiness, encouraging the athletes to envision standing on the podium while the Nigerian national anthem is played.
“I want that thought to drive you from the moment you arrive in Egypt. Make a commitment to return home with medals,” he added.
Adeniyi noted that success at the championship would depend on discipline, strategy, and determination, commending the technical crew for adequately preparing the team during camping despite limited resources.
He assured the athletes of continued support from the federation, particularly in the areas of welfare and motivation, while urging them to seize the opportunity to achieve national recognition through strong performances.
Highlighting Nigeria’s pedigree in the sport, Adeniyi praised the women’s team for maintaining dominance in recent editions of the championship and challenged the men’s team to rise to the occasion and reinforce Nigeria’s status as a continental powerhouse.
Head coach, Akuh Purity, expressed confidence in the team’s readiness, commending Adeniyi’s leadership and support.
“We are not just going to maintain our position; we are going there to come back victorious,” he said.
Also speaking, team representatives Hannah Reuben and Ulabo Solomon thanked the federation for its backing and assured Nigerians of their determination to deliver.
“We understand the expectations and we are ready to fight for Nigeria. Our goal is to return with honours and make the country proud,” they said.
Nigeria has sustained a strong record in African wrestling, particularly in the women’s category, with consistent top finishes in previous championships held in Tunisia and Morocco.
