By Joel Ajayi
President of the Nigeria Karate Federation, Hon. Silas Agara, has been elected as the 4th Vice President of the Africa Karate Federation (UFAK), marking a significant milestone for Nigeria in continental sports leadership.
Agara emerged victorious during the General Assembly of UFAK held on Wednesday in Abuja, defeating his Congolese opponent, Mr. Freddy Kombo, with 20 votes to 11 in a keenly contested election.
The event, which attracted delegates from across the continent, also witnessed the physical presence of the President of the World Karate Federation (WKF), Antonio Espinós, underscoring its importance.
In other outcomes, incumbent UFAK President, Souleymane Gaye, was re-elected after defeating Morocco’s Mohammed Mouktabil. Bashir Cherish, Saheed Nasri, and Sonny Pillar were elected as 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Vice Presidents respectively, while Mr. Bertin Dongmo was elected unopposed as Secretary-General.
Speaking after his victory, Hon. Agara dedicated the win to Nigeria and the entire West African region, pledging to use his new role to promote the growth and development of karate across the continent.
“This is a victory for Nigeria, for West Africa, and for all karate practitioners in the region,” he said. “It is a call to action—to do more, to support the development of the sport, and to create more opportunities for our youth through karate.”
Reflecting on his campaign, Agara stated that his achievements in Nigeria helped earn the confidence of voters.
“I simply presented what we have accomplished back home—our efforts, programmes, and results—and allowed the delegates to decide. I’m glad they recognised our work and gave Nigeria this honour.”
Agara also reaffirmed his commitment to working closely with key stakeholders, including the Nigeria Sports Commission, to strengthen grassroots karate and deliver impactful, well-aligned programmes.
“We’ve always maintained a collaborative relationship with the Sports Commission. We don’t run programmes in isolation—we align with national development priorities. With their continued support, we can raise the standard of karate and other sports in Nigeria.”
Speaking on the ongoing African Karate Championship taking place in Abuja, Agara said the event is poised to deliver a high-impact continental showdown.
He acknowledged the tough competition, particularly from countries like Morocco and Egypt, who have come fully prepared.
“Morocco is here with 10 top-ranked athletes and Egypt with five. The level of competition is world-class—there are no underdogs. This is a defining moment for the growth of sports in Africa.”
No fewer than 1,000 athletes have arrived in Abuja for the 2025 African Karate Championship, which is scheduled to run from July 21 to July 28.
