Sports
TRADITIONAL SPORTS (KOKOWA, DAMBE, ABULA, LANGA AND AYO) NATIONAL OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP SET TO KICK OFF IN ABUJA
The Traditional Sports Federation of Nigeria says preparations are in top gear to stage a hitch free second edition of Traditional Sports National Open Championship.
The National Open Championship which will feature five African sports; Ayo, Dambe, Abula, Langa and Kokowa will take place from August 14-16, 2023 at the Moshood Abiola Stadium Abuja.
Speaking in an interview ahead of the national open championship, President of the Traditional Sports Federation of Nigeria Honourable Olomo Agbadabina said the federation is working day and night to ensure a hitch free championship.
“We have the national championship for traditional sports featuring Langa, Dambe, Ayo, Kokowa and Abula starting on Monday. The federation is ready to stage a befitting championship”.
“We have set the stage and I can tell you that the security is on ground, the medical team is on ground and I can assure you that the championship will be successful”.
Honourable Agbadabina further stated that the objective of the championship is to promote the development of the game in Nigeria.
“Among other things, it expected that we create awareness for the developmental promotion of traditional sports at the grass-root level”.
“We are also using the championship to prepare our athletes for the upcoming ECOWAS Traditional Wresting” I sincerely believe that traditional sports will become a household name in Nigeria soon”.
Poor funding is the ultimate challenge militating against the development of sports in Nigeria.
However, President of the Traditional Sports Federation is seeking the supports of well meaning Nigerians to support traditional sports in the country.
“Our main challenge is funding and I am using the medium to appeal to government and corporate organizations to help fund some of our programs”.
It will be recalled that Nigeria came third in the last ECOWAS Traditional Wrestling Championship which took place in Niamey, Niger Republic.
Sports
Sports heavyweights indicate readiness to volunteer at the 2025 ECOWAS Marathon as registration starts
As preparations intensify for the 2025 ECOWAS Abuja International Marathon, key figures in the sports and fitness industry have expressed their eagerness to volunteer and contribute to the event’s success.
The marathon, set for March 1, 2025, is part of activities to celebrate ECOWAS’ 50th anniversary.
With thousands of runners expected to participate in the 21-kilometre half marathon and the 5-kilometre race, volunteers will be crucial in ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for all.
Gabriel Okon, the Race Director emphasized the significance of volunteers in an event that dedicated individuals to handle various logistical and operational aspects.
“Marathon is not just about the runners; it’s about the team behind the scenes. Volunteers are the backbone of any successful race, from registration and logistics to hydration stations and medical support. Their role is invaluable in making the event smooth and enjoyable for everyone,” he said.
Application for volunteers opened Monday, February 3, 2025, and interested applicants can pick up a form at the Athletics Federation of Nigeria office, Moshood Abiola Stadium, Package A, Abuja.
Members of the sports family including athletes, coaches, fitness trainers, and others have pledged to support the event in different capacities, from technical assistance to race coordination and mentorship for young runners.
Expressing his delight at the overwhelming response, Okon remarked, “The enthusiasm we are seeing from volunteers is inspiring. From retired directors in the ministry, elite athletes, to community fitness trainers, so many people are eager to be part of this celebration of unity and athleticism. This is more than just a race—it’s a movement that brings people together for a greater cause.”
Beyond the competition itself, the ECOWAS Abuja International Marathon represents an opportunity to promote health, youth empowerment, and regional unity through sports.
With over $71,000 in prize money up for grabs, the event is expected to attract elite runners while also encouraging participation from amateur fitness enthusiasts.
Okon stressed that the marathon is not only about athleticism but also about making a lasting impact. “We want this marathon to leave a lasting legacy beyond race day. It’s about inspiring people to embrace fitness, fostering friendships across borders, and promoting a culture of healthy living,” he said.
Interested participants can register at www.ecowasabujamarathon.org or visit the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) offices, FCT Sports councils, and local athletics associations across Nigeria.
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