President of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation, Adeniyi Adewale, has unveiled an ambitious plan to elevate Nigerian wrestling to world-class status, vowing to consolidate on recent successes while launching the most aggressive grassroots development programme in the federation’s history.
READ ALSO: Etafia Demands Perfection: ‘Nigeria MUST Win AFCON 2025 — The Players Owe the Nation’
Adewale, who recently assumed leadership of one of Nigeria’s most successful sporting bodies, said the federation cannot afford to rest on past glory, including medals at the Commonwealth Games, African Championships, and global recognition through stars like Odunayo Adekuoroye and Blessing Oborududu.
“Our intention is simple, consolidate our successes and deepen true grassroots development across Nigeria,” Adewale said.
He emphasized that wrestling’s continued growth depends on identifying talent early, nurturing them through structured training programmes, and ensuring sustained support as they mature into elite competitors.
“We are proposing a pragmatic and aggressive grassroots programme that identifies, nurtures, and supports young athletes to become global champions,” he explained.
The new plan will include establishing zonal training hubs, recruiting specialized youth coaches, expanding school competitions, and increasing international exposure for junior wrestlers. Adewale said this model mirrors the systems used by dominant wrestling nations like the United States, Iran, and Japan.
“Global champions don’t appear overnight. They are built from age 10, 11, 12 — with proper coaching and consistent support. That is what we want to replicate,” he added.
Adewale noted that Nigerian wrestling already has strong foundations, thanks to years of excellence under previous leadership and sustained success on the continent. His goal, therefore, is to stabilize the structure while pushing aggressively into new territories.
“We have a strong base. Our job now is to expand it and make sure every zone in Nigeria produces wrestlers who can compete internationally,” he said.
He also stressed that wrestling provides opportunities beyond medals, including scholarships, global careers, and pathways for youth empowerment.
“Wrestling changes lives. With the right system, we can lift thousands of young athletes,” he noted.
Adewale concluded with a clear vision “Nigeria should not only dominate Africa, we should challenge the world. And that journey starts at the grassroots.”
