Sports

Abuja Set for Action as Armwrestling Heavyweights Arrive for African Showpiece

Published

1 year ago

July 24, 2025

Joel Ajayi

The energy is rising, the countdown is ticking, and all signs point to an unforgettable spectacle — the 2025 African Armwrestling Championship is just around the corner, officially kicking off on July 23rd in Abuja!

Already, the stage is being set for greatness. Nigeria proudly welcomes Olegs Gantimurovs, the internationally respected Master World Armwrestling Referee, who is currently in the country to oversee final preparations and ensure world-class officiating throughout the tournament. His presence isn’t just symbolic — it’s a powerful stamp of global credibility and excellence.

Also now in Abuja are Armwrestling Federation of Africa (AFA) President Charles Osei Asibey, along with top-ranking officials, including World Secretary General Mr. Mircea Simionescu-Simicel, who arrived from Romania to lend his full support.

To top it off, athletes and officials from countries including South Africa, Ghana, Senegal, Mauritius, Mali, Cameroon, and Egypt have already landed — with more on the way. Over 20 African nations will be represented, with more than 400 athletes and officials expected to participate in this historic championship.

The Local Organizing Committee, led by passionate grassroots sports advocate Hon. Adeyinka Adeboye, has been working round the clock to ensure every piece is in place.

From training facilities and logistics to the athletes’ village, the entire championship infrastructure is ready.

This evening will see even more teams arriving, bringing with them fierce rivalry, raw power, and high expectations.

From veteran champions to rising stars, this competition promises action, intensity, and unforgettable moments on African soil.

Nigeria is ready. Africa is ready. The world is watching.

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Sports

Nigeria Volleyball Reporters Congratulates Oguntimehin On Election As Fct Swan Chairman

Published

8 hours ago

November 12, 2026

The Gleamer

The Nigeria Volleyball Reporters Association (NVRA) has congratulated Tolu Oguntimehin on his election as Chairman of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Chapter.

NVRA described his emergence as an opportunity to strengthen sports journalism and advance the welfare of members.

Oguntimehin emerged victorious at the FCT SWAN elective congress held on Thursday, November 12, 2026, at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, defeating his challenger, Raphael Ekpang, by 88 votes to four.

In a congratulatory message, the Chairman of Nigeria Volleyball Reporters, Alhaji Ganiyu Oloyede described the election outcome as a testament to the confidence reposed in Oguntimehin by members of the association.

Oloyede expressed optimism that the new chairman would bring purposeful leadership, inclusiveness and renewed commitment to the development of sports journalism in the FCT.

He stressed that the responsibility of leading the association goes beyond occupying an office.

Oloyede noted that the new administration must prioritise members’ welfare, professional development, unity and the protection of their collective interests.

The NVR chairman also challenged the incoming leadership to create an enabling environment where sports journalists can thrive professionally, gain greater access to sporting events and contribute meaningfully to the growth of Nigerian sports.

He particularly welcomed Oguntimehin’s commitment to establishing a ₦200 million financial base for the association, describing the proposed initiative as an ambitious step towards building a financially stronger and more sustainable SWAN FCT.

Oloyede further emphasised the importance of collaboration among sports journalists, sports federations, government institutions and other stakeholders, maintaining that stronger partnerships would create more opportunities for members and improve the quality of sports reporting.

He urged the new executive to embrace transparency, accountability and open communication while ensuring that every member feels represented in the administration.

The Nigeria Volleyball Reporters reaffirmed its readiness to work with the new SWAN FCT leadership in promoting sports journalism, strengthening professional relationships and projecting Nigerian sports positively.

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