As Nigeria prepares to host the 14th African Armwrestling Championship from July 23 to 27, 2025, the spotlight shines on the man serving as Chief Host of this prestigious continental event—His Excellency Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and a prominent figure in Nigeria’s political and sports development landscape.
A man of vision, action, and result-oriented leadership, Wike has consistently demonstrated a passion for infrastructure, grassroots empowerment, and sports development throughout his public service career. Prior to his appointment as FCT Minister, Wike served as the Governor of Rivers State (2015–2023), where he left a legacy of transformative projects, including monumental investments in education, roads, health, and sporting facilities.
Under his leadership, Rivers State became a sports powerhouse, launching initiatives such as the Real Madrid Football Academy and delivering several modern stadiums that hosted local and international competitions. His sports-forward governance earned him recognition across Africa, including being named the first-ever recipient of the “Power of Sports in Africa” Award.
Now at the helm of Nigeria’s capital city, Wike brings the same commitment and charisma to bear in hosting the African continent for what promises to be the most vibrant and well-organized African Armwrestling Championship in the history of the sport.
His involvement as Chief Host reaffirms the country’s readiness to deliver a world-class tournament in July, showcasing Abuja not only as the political heartbeat of Nigeria but also as a rising hub for international sports.
As anticipation builds across Africa’s armwrestling community, the presence of a dynamic and influential leader like Nyesom Ezenwo Wike at the forefront assures stakeholders, athletes, and fans alike that “Abuja 2025” will be remembered for excellence, unity, and the spirit of true African sportsmanship.
