In what many have called the highlight of the 22nd National Sports Festival – Gateway Games Ogun 2024, arm wrestling made a thunderous debut as a demonstration sport, drawing in massive crowds, fierce competition, and setting a new standard for emerging sports in Nigeria.
Over the course of two action-packed days in Abeokuta, Ogun State, 17 states competed in front of an electrified audience. The arena witnessed both raw strength and patriotic pride as athletes battled for dominance in a sport now surging in popularity.
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At the end of the thrilling bouts, Lagos State emerged as the overall leader, claiming 9 gold, 1 silver, and 2 bronze medals, followed closely by Edo State with 8 gold, 2 silver, and 1 bronze. Imo State took third place with 4 gold medals.
Other states that featured on the medal table included Oyo (3 gold), followed by Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Ebonyi, Rivers, Enugu, Ondo, Ogun, Delta, Bauchi, Kaduna, Ekiti, and the FCT.
The event, which was approved by the National Sports Commission, received high-profile support and attendance. Representatives from the Commission, alongside other dignitaries, were present to witness what is now being described as a turning point for the sport in Nigeria.
President of the Nigeria Armwrestling Federation, Engr. Samuel Olatunji Jackson, expressed gratitude to the National Sports Commission for the opportunity to demonstrate the sport at such a prestigious level.
“This event has exceeded expectations,” said Engr. Jackson. “We thank the National Sports Commission, the Chairman, and the Director General for their belief in our vision. The success here proves that arm wrestling is ready for full inclusion.”
The impact also resonated across the continent, with President of the Armwrestling Federation of Africa (AFA), Mr. Charles Asibey, celebrating the moment as a significant win for Africa.
“This is not just Nigeria’s victory—it’s Africa’s victory. What happened in Abeokuta shows that arm wrestling is no longer emerging. It has arrived,” Asibey said.
The tremendous turnout, the energy of the crowd, and the skill of the athletes demonstrated that arm wrestling is not only competitive but also a fan favorite. With this momentum, stakeholders are optimistic that the sport will be fully integrated into future editions of the National Sports Festival
