By Joel Ajayi

Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) for the 2025 African Armwrestling Championship and Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Adeboye Adeyinkahas affirmed that armwrestling is emerging as a new platform to empower Nigerian youth and uncover untapped sporting potential.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the 14th African Armwrestling Championship and the 7th Para Armwrestling Championship on Saturday in Abuja, Adeyinka emphasized that the sport—once considered obscure—is now offering exciting opportunities for young athletes across the country.

“This championship has unearthed new talents, and I believe Nigeria is ready to compete—and win—at the World Cup level,” Adeyinka said. “We thank God for blessing our country with so many gifted athletes.”

He credited the success of the tournament to the unwavering support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose Renewed Hope Agenda, he said, is revitalizing the entire Nigerian sports ecosystem.

“This is the first time Nigeria is proudly hosting an international armwrestling championship, and it has been a resounding success. It proves that so-called lesser-known sports like armwrestling can provide real opportunities for our youth,” he stated.

Adeyinka extended his appreciation to the African Armwrestling Federation for granting Nigeria the hosting rights and applauded the media for amplifying awareness of the sport throughout the nation.

“We’re grateful to the African Armwrestling Federation for the trust they placed in us. And we deeply appreciate the role the media has played in putting armwrestling on the map in Nigeria,” he added.

The LOC Chairman stressed that the success of the championship signals a promising future for Nigerian youth who are passionate about sports beyond the mainstream.

“Under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, we are witnessing a deliberate push to broaden access and investment in sports, especially at the grassroots level. This will open doors for countless young people to develop and showcase their talents,” he said.

He also praised the Federal Ministry of Sports and the general public for their ongoing belief in sports as a tool for empowerment, unity, and national pride.

“Despite the challenges we encountered, the firm support from Mr. President helped us overcome them. His commitment was consistent, intentional, and transformative,” he noted.

Adeyinka concluded by expressing optimism that the success of the armwrestling championship will lead to more international sporting events being hosted in Nigeria, further expanding opportunities for the nation’s youth.

“Thank you, Mr. President, and thank you to everyone who made this historic event a reality,” he said.
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