News
Nigeria’s Sporting Achievements Now Worth Celebrating – Agara
Joel Ajayi
President of the Karate Federation of Nigeria, Silas Agara, has emphasized the need to celebrate the significant strides made in Nigerian sports, particularly in the discipline of karate.
Speaking on the sidelines of the ongoing 2025 African Karate Federation Championship in Abuja, Agara expressed immense pride in Nigeria’s role as host, as well as the country’s impressive performance at the continental event.
“It’s a moment of pride for every sports enthusiast, especially those involved in karate. Beyond the honour of hosting, we’ve made major strides in our performance.”
The championship, which has drawn athletes from over 34 African countries, has been widely applauded for its top-tier organization, world-class infrastructure, and warm hospitality—qualities.
Reflecting on Team Nigeria’s achievements, Agara noted the country’s significant improvement on past performances.
“Before now, our best outing at the African Championship yielded just one gold medal in the minus-60kg category.
“But this year, we’ve won one gold, two silver, and two bronze medals. That’s a tremendous leap from what we recorded at the last championship in Egypt.”
He further revealed that Nigeria had qualified for two more finals and expressed hope for additional medals before the close of the tournament.
Agara also emphasized the broader impact of the event, noting the transformation in perception among first-time visitors to Nigeria.
“Many of the athletes came in unsure of what to expect, but they are leaving with a completely different view of Nigeria. From airport reception to hotel accommodation and the velodrome experience, they’ve seen that Nigeria is safe, hospitable, and highly accommodating,” he said.
The event also made history as Nigeria’s first time hosting the African Karate Championshipand with a record number of participating nations.
“This is the first time any edition of the championship has had over 30 countries in attendance. We have 34 countries here in Abuja, which is unprecedented,” Agara said, quoting the President of the African Karate Union.
He praised the standard of facilities and the overall atmosphere of the championship, adding that many have compared the event to a world-class tournament.
“This proves that Nigerian sports have evolved to a level worthy of national celebration,” he affirmed.
Agara concluded by appreciating the support of the local sports community, highlighting the selfless contributions of individuals and organizations.
“From those who brought water for the athletes to those who offered gifts to foreign participants, the sense of unity and hospitality has been overwhelming. This is the true Nigerian spirit, and we are proud to showcase it.”.
News
Nigeria at 66: ‘We Must Not Lose Faith in Nigeria’ — FCC Boss Omidiran
Joel Ajayi
The Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Honorable Hulayat Motunrayo Omidiran, has called on Nigerians to use the occasion of the nation’s 66th Independence Anniversary to renew their faith in Nigeria, strengthen national unity and recommit themselves to building a more inclusive and prosperous country.
In her 66th Independence Day message, Hon. Omidiran described October 1 as more than a celebration of freedom, saying the anniversary provides an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the country’s journey, acknowledge its progress and challenges, and renew the collective determination to build a nation where every citizen has a sense of belonging.
According to the FCC Executive Chairman, the Federal Character Principle remains particularly important to the quest for national cohesion because equitable representation promotes a sense of ownership and confidence in the Nigerian project.
“Nigeria is a nation of great diversity and
enormous potential. Our responsibility is to ensure that this diversity becomes a bridge that connects us rather than a barrier that separates us. Every Nigerian deserves to feel that he or she belongs to this country and has a role to play in its development,” Omidiran said.
The FCC boss called on government institutions at all levels to remain committed to fairness, equity, accountability and inclusive governance, while urging citizens to support efforts aimed at strengthening national institutions and promoting peaceful coexistence.
“We must not lose faith in Nigeria. The challenges before us are real, but so are the opportunities and the enormous human and natural resources available to us. Every citizen has a responsibility to contribute his or her own quota to building the Nigeria we desire,” she stated.
The FCC Executive Chairman also urged young Nigerians to remain committed to acquiring knowledge and skills, entrepreneurship, innovation, sports and other productive ventures, describing the youth as critical stakeholders in the country’s future.
“As we celebrate 66 years of independence, let us remember that the Nigeria we want cannot be built by government alone. It requires the commitment of all of us – leaders and citizens, young and old, from every part of the federation. Together, we can build a Nigeria where justice, fairness, opportunity and peace are available to all,” she said.
Omidiran reaffirmed the FCC’s commitment to the effective discharge of its constitutional mandate and to supporting efforts that promote equitable representation and inclusive national development across the federation.
The former lawmaker wished Nigerians at home and abroad a peaceful and memorable 66th Independence Anniversary, praying for continued peace, stability, prosperity and progress for the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“Our differences should never be greater than our common identity as Nigerians. Let us continue to choose unity over division, service over self-interest and hope over despair. The Nigeria of our dreams is possible if we all play our part,” Omidiran said.
“On behalf of the Federal Character Commission, I congratulate all Nigerians on this 66th Independence Anniversary. May this occasion renew our patriotism, strengthen our unity and inspire us to work together for a stronger, more equitable and prosperous Nigeria. May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” she added.
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