…Says Armwrestling Will Create New Opportunities for Nigerian Youth
Joel Ajayi
Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) for the 2025 African Armwrestling Championship and Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Hon. Adeboye Adeyinka, has applauded the President for revitalizing Nigeria’s sports sector through the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Speaking on Saturday during the closing ceremony of the 14th African Armwrestling Championship and the 7th Para Armwrestling Championship held in Abuja, Adeyinka attributed the successful hosting of the continental event to the unwavering support of President Tinubu.
He described the championships as a landmark celebration of strength, unity, and sporting excellence across Africa, noting that the Tinubu administration’s deliberate commitment to sports development is beginning to yield visible results on the international stage.
“I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for the successful hosting of this tournament. For the first time, in what many have referred to as a lesser-known sport, Nigeria has proudly hosted an international armwrestling event,” Adeyinka stated.
He extended appreciation to the African Armwrestling Federation for entrusting Nigeria with the hosting rights and commended the media for their vital role in promoting the sport.
“We thank the African Armwrestling Federation for giving us the opportunity to host. I also appreciate the media for doing a fantastic job in giving visibility to armwrestling—helping to put this sport on the map in Nigeria,” he said.
Adeyinka noted that Nigeria’s successful hosting has not only elevated the profile of the sport but has also uncovered promising young talents.
“This championship has unearthed new talents, and I believe Nigeria is ready to compete—and win—at the World Cup level. We thank God for blessing our country with so many gifted athletes.”
He emphasized that under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Nigerian youth are gaining more access to platforms that will help them grow and shine globally in sports.
“I am happy, not just for our athletes, but for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as well. His agenda has enabled us to raise new talents and expand the reach of sports in Nigeria. This success is a testament to the administration’s purposeful and people-focused leadership,” he added.
Adeyinka also commended the Sports Commission and Nigerians at large for their continued belief in sports as a tool for national unity and development.
“Despite the challenges we faced along the way, we were able to overcome them thanks to the unwavering support of Mr. President. His backing for this tournament was direct, consistent, and intentional—and it made all the difference.”
He concluded by reaffirming his confidence that more international sporting events would soon be staged in Nigeria.
“Thank you once again, Mr. President, and thank you to everyone who made this historic event possible.”
