Dikko declares 13th ECOWAS wrestling tournament open, reinstates Nigeria’s commitment to regional unity through sports
National Sports Commission Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko on Thursday reiterated the nation’s commitment towards unity and economic advancement of West Africa deploying sports as a tool.
The NSC Chairman made this commitment in his opening speech at the 13th ECOWAS African Wrestling Tournament at the Velodrome MKO Abiola National Stadium Abuja.
His words, “We are particularly honoured that this prestigious event is taking place at a time when the leadership of ECOWAS is being steered by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Chairman of the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government.
Under his visionary guidance, ECOWAS continues to champion unity, economic development and the advancement of sports as a tool for peace and regional cohesion.
“This tournament is a testament to our collective commitment to promoting cultural ties and strengthening the bonds that unite us as West Africans, and indeed proud Africans.”
He highlighted the Commission’s youth empowerment drive through sports.
“Nigeria is proud to host this prestigious event, reaffirming our commitment to the promotion and development of traditional sports. The National Sports Commission remains dedicated to harnessing sports as a vehicle for youth empowerment, regional integration and economic growth.
“Through events like this, we provide a platform for young athletes to showcase their talent, create wealth by earning a living through sports, build camaraderie and inspire future generations”, he added.
In his view, such tournaments would strengthen the RHINSE programme of the Commission.
He continued, “This is in line with the Federal Government of Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Initiative for Nigeria’s Sports Economy (RHINSE) framework, a comprehensive strategy aimed at resetting, refocusing and relaunching Nigeria’s sports ecosystem, by developing sports infrastructure enhancing sports development, promotion of domestic competitions and improving the economic contribution of sports to the nation.”
Mallam Dikko enjoined the participating nations to look beyond the medals on showcase at the tournament.
“To our esteemed wrestlers, I urge you to compete with passion, fairness and respect for one another. Remember, beyond the medals and trophies, this tournament represents unity, friendship and the enduring power of sport to bring people together”, he concluded.
Earlier in his statement, Director -General of NSC Hon. Bukola Olopade echoed the nation’s resolve to host a very memorable edition of the tournament.
“We are committed to hosting a world-class tournament where all our ECOWAS brothers will compete favourably and go back with lasting memories of their time in Nigeria.
“I want everyone from the different ECOWAS nations to feel free and savour our unique Nigeria hospitality as we enjoy days of this prestigious tournament”, he said.
In her remark, Commissioner for Human Development and Social Affairs ECOWAS Commission Prof. Fatou Sow Sarr represented by Amb. Francis Chuks Njoaguani expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for graciously accepting to host the tournament in Nigeria for the first time. In her opinion, the tournament will strengthen the unity in the sub-region.
A total of 55 athletes from 11 countries are battling for honours in the championship with each nation fielding five wrestlers and four technical officials.
Adding to the excitement, this year’s edition will feature women wrestlers for the first time in the tournament’s history, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of African traditional wrestling.
With this tournament coinciding with ECOWAS’ 50th anniversary, the National Sports Commission is committed to delivering the best-organized edition to date, ensuring a memorable and impactful event.
