It was a day etched in history as Nigeria once again demonstrated its leadership in sports development across the continent.
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The NAF Conference Center in Kado, Abuja, came alive on Saturday, June 14, as the Nigeria Armwrestling Federation officially unveiled the mascots for the 14th African Armwrestling Championship – Abuja 2025, alongside a high-impact fundraising gala in support of the landmark event.
Spearheading the occasion was Hon. Adeyinka Adeboye, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Grassroots Sports Development and Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC), whose vision for sports as a unifying and empowering tool was fully on display.
“This is more than just armwrestling. Today’s unveiling represents the heartbeat of a movement for grassroots sports development across Africa,” Adeyinka declared.
“With the overwhelming support we’ve seen today, I am confident Nigeria will deliver the best African Armwrestling Championship in history come July.”
The event was graced by an impressive lineup of dignitaries and national stakeholders in sports and development, including:
Mallam Shehu Dikko, Chairman, National Sports Commission
Chief Olubukola Olopade, Director General, National Sports Commission
Hon. Kafilat Ogbara, Member, House of Representatives
Comrade Ayodele Olawande, Minister of Youth & Social Development
The gala was not just a celebration but also a call to action — raising funds to ensure that the upcoming Africa Armwrestling Championship in July 2025 sets new standards of excellence for the sport on the continent.
Hon. Adeyinka extended special appreciation to all attendees, expressing his deep gratitude on behalf of the federation and the LOC.
“Thank you for believing in this dream. Together, we’re creating a platform for youth, unity, and international recognition through armwrestling,” he said.
The mascot unveiling was met with cheers, excitement, and pride as the vibrant characters symbolizing strength, discipline, and African unity took center stage — further cementing Nigeria’s readiness to host athletes from over 20 countries later this year.
As the countdown continues to July 23–27, the message is clear: Nigeria is ready, and Africa is watching.
Stay tuned — history is being written, one arm at a time!
