Sports

Nigeria Taekwondo Federation President Congratulates AFTU Best Female Referee, Thursdaline Peter

Published

10 months ago

January 8, 2026

Cyril Ogar

The Nigeria Taekwondo Federation (NTF) has congratulated its referee, Thursdaline Peter, following her emergence as the Africa Taekwondo Federation Union (AFTU) Best Female Referee for the Year 2025, a recognition that has once again placed Nigeria Taekwondo on the global stage.

The AFTU Awards, which recognize outstanding performances across categories such as Best Male and Female Athletes and Best Male and Female Referees, are designed to celebrate individuals who have demonstrated exceptional excellence throughout the outgoing year.

Speaking to NTF Media shortly after the announcement, the President of the Nigeria Taekwondo Federation, Grand Master Tayo Popoola, expressed immense pride and satisfaction over the prestigious recognition awarded to Thursdaline Peter.

“This is another major milestone for Nigeria Taekwondo, and I am truly elated with the news of our referee emerging as the Best Female Referee for the year 2025,” Popoola said.

Shee further praised her dedication, professionalism, and passion for officiating, noting her consistent presence at both local and international competitions.

“You can see the energy, commitment, and passion she brings to her job, as well as her willingness to travel for several organized competitions at both national and international championships,” she added.

The NTF President encouraged athletes and officials across the federation to use this achievement as motivation heading into the 2026 season.

“The power of Naija is in us, and I believe that with the programmes we have lined up for the year, there is no reason why we cannot dominate these awards for the next couple of years,” Popoola stated.

She reaffirmed the federation’s commitment to supporting athletes and referees by providing opportunities to participate in major championships that contribute to ranking points and continental recognition.

“As a federation, we are ready to support as many of our athletes and referees as possible to compete at major championships, which serve as ranking platforms to position Nigeria among the best in Africa,” he concluded.
In clinching the award, Thursdaline Peter outperformed notable contenders including Hebatullah Samir of Egypt, Chantal Anoh of Côte d’Ivoire, and Marshet Zwedu Woldehana of Ethiopia.

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Sports

Lagos Women Run: Excitement Builds Ahead of Saturday’s TBS Race

Published

2 days ago

November 10, 2026

The Gleamer

Joel Ajayi

Participants from different walks of life are eagerly looking forward to the Lagos Women Run scheduled for Saturday, November 14, at the Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS), Lagos.

The participants have expressed excitement about the opportunities and experiences the annual event promises to offer.

Our correspondent reports that, in addition to runners from within Lagos and other parts of Nigeria, some athletes are expected to travel from outside the country to participate in the race.

The organisers are already making preparations for the large number of registered participants, while the possibility of accepting late entries will depend on the timing and other arrangements.

The Coordinator of the Lagos Women Run, Tayo Popoola, said participants should expect an improved experience compared with previous editions.

“We have to continue to get better, as that is the driving force for us as organisers. We will be bigger and better with every edition,” Popoola said.

The 2026 Lagos Women Run will hold on Saturday, November 14, with Tafawa Balewa Square serving as the starting point.

Participants are expected to arrive at the venue by 6:30 a.m. for the event.

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