Sports

Nigeria Prioritizes Cadet and Junior Development – Karate President

Published

1 year ago

July 25, 2025

…As Stakeholders Applaud Successful Hosting of Africa Karate Championship in Abuja
By Joel Ajayi

As action commenced on Day One of the ongoing 2025 Africa Karate Championship in Abuja, with over 34 countries in attendance, the President of the Karate Federation of Nigeria (KFN), Silas Agara, disclosed that Nigeria’s primary focus remains the development of cadet and junior athletes who will represent the nation at the Olympics and other global events.

Speaking during the championship, Agara emphasized that the tournament offers a golden opportunity for Nigeria to nurture young talents with the determination and potential to reach the pinnacle of their careers.

“We are investing our time and resources in the cadet and junior categories. These young athletes are the future of karate in Nigeria, and we believe they have what it takes to compete at the highest levels globally,” Agara stated.

He further revealed that plans are underway to register Nigeria’s young athletes for an international event scheduled for October, which will serve both as a preparatory platform and an opportunity to earn points toward qualification for the World Championship.

Commenting on Nigeria’s hosting of the tournament, Agara—who was recently elected as the 4th Vice President of the African Karate Federation—disclosed that although Nigeria did not initially bid to host the championship, the country has exceeded expectations in delivering a world-class event.

“We never bid for this championship because stronger nations like Libya, Egypt, and Morocco had already shown interest. But to the glory of God, we have hosted one of the best African Karate Championships ever,” he said.

“We have the best mats on display, an exceptional ambiance, and arguably the finest medals ever presented in the history of African karate championships.”

Agara credited the success of the tournament to the unwavering support of the Federal Government and the National Sports Commission. He also commended Nigerian athletes for their impressive performances and praised the participation of 34 countries—a rare feat in African sports championships.

“We’re proud of our athletes and grateful for the unity this championship has brought to African karate,” he added.

Agara reaffirmed the federation’s strong commitment to grassroots development across the country.

Meanwhile, stakeholders and dignitaries from around the world, including the President of the World Karate Federation (WKF), Antonio Espinós, expressed high praise for the facilities and overall organization of the event.

“I am impressed by the edifice and top-notch facilities here in Abuja. The standards are very high,” Espinós remarked.

Similarly, the newly elected President of the Union of Africa Karate Federation (UAKF), Souleymane Gaye, also lauded Nigeria for hosting a befitting championship, describing the facilities as “world-class” during a televised interview on NTA.

On the competitive front, Team Nigeria delivered an impressive performance on Day One of the championship, clinching five medals to finish second on the medals table.

Nigeria’s medal haul included one gold, two silver, and two bronze medals, reaffirming the country’s growing stature on the continental karate scene.

The 2025 Africa Karate Championship, currently ongoing in Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, has drawn elite athletes from across the continent in a vibrant celebration of skill, discipline, and sportsmanship.

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Sports

Nigeria Volleyball Reporters Congratulates Oguntimehin On Election As Fct Swan Chairman

Published

7 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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