President of the Armwrestling Federation of Africa (AFA), Mr. Charles Asibey, has commended Nigeria’s approval of arm wrestling as a demonstration sport at the 22nd National Sports Festival, tagged Gateway Games Ogun 2024, describing it as a major step forward for the sport across the continent.
The Nigeria Armwrestling Federation (NAWF) recently secured approval from the National Sports Commission to feature arm wrestling at the Games, scheduled to take place from May 16 to 30 in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
Reacting to the development, Mr. Asibey stated that Nigeria’s decision marks a victory for arm wrestling not only nationally but across Africa.
“This is not just Nigeria’s win—this is Africa’s victory. When a sporting powerhouse like Nigeria says yes to arm wrestling at a national level, the entire continent takes notice,” he said.
He praised the leadership of Nigeria’s National Sports Commission, with special commendation for the Chairman, Mallam Dikko, and the Director General, Hon. Bukola Olopade, for what he described as a forward-thinking approach to sports development.“Mallam Dikko and Hon. Olopade have not only recognized the talent within Nigeria—they’ve opened the doors for the whole continent to be inspired,” he added.
Mr. Asibey, who also serves as Vice President of the World Armwrestling Federation, acknowledged the rapid growth of the sport in Nigeria and credited it to the leadership of Engr. Samuel Olatunji Jackson, President of the Nigeria Armwrestling Federation.
He emphasized that the visibility arm wrestling will receive during the Gateway Games could shape future policies and expand the sport’s reach across Africa.
“This isn’t just about showcasing strength—it’s about showcasing opportunity. Young boys and girls from Lagos to Lusaka will see arm wrestling not just as a game, but as a future,” he said.
Armwrestling will be featured for the first time in the history of the National Sports Festival as a demonstration sport. Organizers and stakeholders believe the inclusion will strengthen the case for its full integration in future editions and further promote Nigeria’s growing influence in the global arm wrestling community.
