Adeboye happy to secure Navy partnership ahead African Armwrestling Championship
Senior Special Assistant on Grassroots Sports Development to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Adeboye Anthony Adeyinka, is elated over securing the Nigerian Navy as part of security plans and measures for a hitch free and successful African Armwrestling Championship.
Adeboye, who is known for organising top-class events , is not leaving any stone unturned, and he’s working tirelessly to make sure he delivers one of the most memorable sporting events on the African continent.
The Local Organizing Committee (LOC) of the 14th African Armwrestling Championship “Abuja 2025” is glad to have one of Nigeria’s most effective security outfit, the Nigerian Navy to provide strategic support for the big event.
On Thursday, Adeboye led a top-class delegation of the Nigeria Armwrestling Federation to an important meeting with Rear Admiral James Kilby, Chief of Naval Operations, at the Nigerian Navy Headquarters.
Describing the meeting as “highly productive and forward-thinking,” Adeyinka revealed that discussions focused on aligning operational objectives and fine-tuning key strategies for the successful hosting of the championship in Abuja
“We are building and working towards something historic, and today’s meeting with the Nigerian Navy has shown that we have strong institutional backing.
” Rear Admiral Kilby’s insights and leadership reaffirm our belief that this championship will set a new benchmark not only in Nigeria but across Africa,” Adeyinka said.
In a major show of commitment, Admiral Kilby announced that armwrestling will be included in the upcoming Nigerian Navy Games, signalling official recognition and deeper military engagement with the fast-rising sport
“Armwrestling is growing impressively, and it’s a sport that fits well with the values of discipline and strength. We will include it in the next Naval Games and fully support its development nationwide,” Kilby affirmed.
The LOC Chairman praised Admiral Kilby for his exceptional commitment to national development through sports and his readiness to support the advancement of emerging disciplines like armwrestling.
Also, in attendance at the fruitful session were: Engr.Samuel Jackson, President, Nigeria Armwrestling Federation, Commodore M.S Olukoya, Vice President, Commodore Durim Sadiku and Commander Kayode Olufade, Nigeria Navy Sports Headquarters l.
This partnership, Adeyinka said, underscores the LOC’s determination to deliver a world-class experience for athletes, fans, and stakeholders across Africa. He also hinted that more collaborations are in the pipeline to strengthen logistics, security, and hospitality for the event.
“This championship is not just about sports; it’s a celebration of unity, youth empowerment, and excellence. With the Nigerian Navy’s support, we are even more confident of hosting a tournament Africa will be proud of.”
In further preparation for the continental showpiece, the LOC has officially announced June 14, 2025, as the date for the Mascot Unveiling and Fund raising Night, an event expected to draw dignitaries, sponsors, and key stakeholders from across the country.
The 14th African Armwrestling Championship is slated to take place in Abuja in July 2025, attracting participants from over 20 African nations.
