CGC Adeniyi Sets Medal Target for Wrestlers Ahead of Africa Championship

ZAINAB JUNAID

The Comptroller-General of Customs and President of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation (NWF), Adewale Adeniyi, has urged Nigeria’s wrestlers to fly the nation’s flag high and return with medals at the African Wrestling Championships in Alexandria, Egypt, scheduled for May 2026.

Adeniyi gave the charge on Tuesday, 28 April 2026, while hosting athletes, coaches and officials of the federation at the Nigeria Customs Service Headquarters, Maitama, Abuja, ahead of their departure for the continental tournament.

Addressing the team, he described their qualification as both an honour and a weighty responsibility.

“I congratulate you all for earning this opportunity. Many others would wish to be in your position. Representing Nigeria at a continental championship comes with a serious obligation,” he said.

He reminded the wrestlers that they were no longer competing as representatives of their states but as ambassadors of the country.

“You are no longer representing Bayelsa, Ondo, Lagos or any other state. You are now ambassadors of the green-white-green, and that is a responsibility we value deeply,” Adeniyi stated.

He urged them to stay motivated by the prospect of hearing the national anthem at medal ceremonies, charging them to make a firm commitment to return with honours.

“Let that thought drive you from the moment you arrive in Egypt. Make a personal commitment that you will return on that aircraft with medals,” he added.

According to him, success at the championship would depend on discipline, strategy, commitment and determination, noting that the technical crew had adequately prepared the team during camping.

“There is a journey from stepping onto the mat to leaving with a medal. It requires effort, discipline and total commitment. I believe your coaches have instilled these values in you,” he said.

Adeniyi disclosed that despite financial constraints, the federation ensured the team underwent camping due to its critical role in preparation.

“Resources were tight, but we understood the importance of camping and made it happen,” he noted.

He assured the athletes of continued support, particularly in the areas of welfare and motivation.

“We leave performance in your hands, while the federation takes responsibility for your welfare. We will not let you down,” he said.

Highlighting the pedigree of Nigeria’s female wrestlers as defending champions, Adeniyi challenged the men’s team to rise to the occasion.

“Our women are already champions. Staying on top is even more difficult. For the men, this is an opportunity to prove that Nigeria belongs at the pinnacle of African wrestling,” he added.

Nigeria has remained dominant in African wrestling in recent years, with the women’s team consistently topping continental competitions, including past championships in Hammamet, Tunisia, and Casablanca, Morocco.

Head coach Akuh Purity commended Adeniyi’s support, assuring that the team would justify the confidence placed in them.

“We are not just going to maintain our position; we are going to return victorious,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of the athletes, Hannah Reuben and Ulabo Solomon expressed appreciation for the federation’s backing and pledged strong performances.

“We understand the task ahead and are ready to give our best. We are going with determination and focus to make Nigeria proud,” they said.