Sports

Nigeria Will Soon Be a Leading Force in African, Global Karate – Agara

Published

3 months ago

July 28, 2025

…As 2025 African Karate Championship Ends in Abuja

Joel Ajayi

President of the Karate Federation of Nigeria, Hon. Silas Agara, has expressed strong optimism about Nigeria’s rising status in the sport of Karate, declaring that the country is on course to becoming a dominant force both in Africa and on the global stage.

Agara made the statement during the closing ceremony of the 2025 African Karate Championship, which took place at the Velodrome of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja.

The championship attracted over 1,000 athletes from more than 30 countries.

He commended the Federal Government and the National Sports Commission for their vital support, which he credited for the successful hosting of the event.

“We are proud of what we’ve accomplished. Successfully hosting this championship is a major achievement, and it shows that Nigeria has what it takes to lead in this sport,” Agara stated.

He noted that while countries like Egypt arrived with 10 world-class athletes, Nigerian athletes were able to compete effectively, even reaching the finals in several categories.

“Our athletes have reached a level where they can share the podium with some of the best in the world. Morocco came with five world-ranked athletes, and traditionally, North African countries have dominated karate in Africa. But Nigeria is now changing the narrative,” he said.

Agara also acknowledged the efforts of other participating nations such as Senegal and Burkina Faso, known for their heavy investments in karate.

However, he emphasized that despite being relatively new to the global karate scene, Nigeria is making rapid progress.

“With the medals we’ve secured and the strong performances we’ve seen, it’s clear our athletes are on the right path. We are no longer just participants—we are contenders,” he added.

Agara concluded by reaffirming his belief that with continued investment, grassroots development, and the right support structures, Nigeria will soon emerge as a powerhouse in African and international karate.

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Sports

Thrills as 2026 National Hockey Super League Opens in Abuja — NHF President Promises Greater Innovation

Published

9 hours ago

November 1, 2025

The Gleamer

Cyril Ogar
The atmosphere was electric on Saturday at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, as the 2026 National Hockey Super League officially kicked off in grand style.

The championship, which runs from November 1st to 9th, features 13 male and 8 female teams from across the country competing for supremacy in Nigeria’s top-tier hockey competition.

In the opening fixtures, Police Machine dominated IGP Flickers 9–1, Kada Stars overwhelmed Adamawa 13–0, Plateau edged Ekiti 1–0, while Niger Flickers crushed Team Katsina 10–0.

Speaking at the ceremony, President of the Nigeria Hockey Federation (NHF), Engr. Simon Nkom, expressed satisfaction with the smooth start, describing the league as a key milestone in the Federation’s renewed drive to strengthen grassroots hockey and promote national development of the sport.

“This is indeed a proud moment for us. We are here to witness a national event that we hold in very high esteem,” he said. “It’s a great way to end the year, return to our grassroots, and continue developing the game.”

Nkom, who also serves as an Executive Member of the African Hockey Federation Board, assured that the Federation will sustain its current momentum and introduce more innovations in 2027 to further elevate Nigerian hockey both locally and internationally.

“Our focus remains on building a strong foundation for our players and promoting discipline, teamwork, and fair play,” he added.

“Beyond monetary rewards, the experience gained here is invaluable. We will continue to recognize excellence through awards for Best Player, Best Goalkeeper, Youngest Player, and Most Disciplined Team.”

The Tournament Director, Mr. Falore Olajuyigbe, confirmed that the league will run for one week, ending on November 8th, with teams departing the following day. He praised the level of play and organization so far.

“The matches have been exciting and competitive. Attendance has been encouraging, and we’re confident that the quality of play will keep improving,” Olajuyigbe said.

He added that the tournament is benefitting from lessons learned during Nigeria’s participation in the African Club Championship in Ismailia, Egypt, noting that two Nigerian umpires who officiated at that continental event are also part of the officiating crew in Abuja.

As the 2026 National Hockey Super League unfolds, excitement continues to build among fans and players alike, with Abuja firmly at the center of Nigeria’s hockey action.

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