It was an emotional evening filled with tears of joy as two Nigerian Taekwondo Grand Masters were honoured by the World Taekwondo Jidokwan Federation at the ongoing Nigeria Taekwondo Federation National Open Trials inside the Multi-Purpose Hall of the Alake Sports Centre, Ijeja, Abeokuta, Ogun State.
Grand Master Sunday Koffi Akani and Grand Master Dominic Asuquo Bassey were both decorated and recognised for attaining the prestigious 7th Dan rank.
The presentation of certificates and recognition took place immediately after the scheduled Kukkiwon Dan Grading Test. During the ceremony, World Taekwondo Federation (WTF) representative and President of World Taekwondo Masters Union Grand Master Kim Lee described the two honourees as symbols of dedication and honour deserving of celebration.
“On behalf of the World Taekwondo Jidokwan family, we are honoured to decorate you today for the efforts you have put into the growth of Taekwondo from its early days until now,” Grand Master Kim Lee stated.
“You both have laboured tirelessly, and this honour is a symbol that your hard work and sacrifices have not been in vain.”
Speaking after receiving the award, Grand Master Sunday Koffi Akani expressed gratitude to God for being alive to witness and personally receive the recognition after decades of commitment to the sport.
“You may not understand the reason behind my tears. It is because this honour is coming while I am still alive to receive it with my own hands after 54 years of hard work,” he said emotionally.
“By the grace of God, I still train today at Ikoyi Club in Lagos, and I remain grateful to everyone who has supported me, especially the President of the Nigeria Taekwondo Federation Grand Master Tayo Popoola for all the efforts being made.”
Offering advice to the younger generation, Grand Master Akani urged upcoming athletes and practitioners to remain focused, disciplined, and committed to the development of the sport rather than being driven solely by financial rewards.
“I want to make it clear to the younger generation that money should not be their major target. They should work hard and help grow the sport because that dedication is what will eventually take them to the top,” he added.
The recognition ceremony was one of the major highlights of the ongoing Nigeria Taekwondo Federation National Open Trials which continues to showcase some of the country’s finest Taekwondo talents.
