The President of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation, Bashir Adeniyi, has congratulated Team Nigeria on the country's first-ever medal at the Veterans World Wrestling Championships in Amman, Jordan. The championships, which run from October 6 to 11, feature Greco-Roman and freestyle wrestling for athletes aged 35 and above. Adeniyi praised Elias Mika, a former national champion, for winning bronze in the 70kg Greco-Roman category.
Mika's achievement is a historic feat for Nigeria, marking the country's first-ever medal at the Veterans World Wrestling Championships. Adeniyi also commended veteran coach Babatunde James, popularly known as Tunde King, for guiding Mika to the medal. In a message on behalf of the federation's board, Adeniyi expressed pride in Mika's dedication and passion for wrestling, even after retiring from active competition.
The Nigeria Wrestling Federation has deliberately built veteran wrestling into its strategic blueprint to recognise the contributions of former athletes and keep them connected to the sport. Adeniyi disclosed that the experience of former athletes like Mika could inspire and mentor younger wrestlers. He assured veterans that the current board would continue to support their welfare and involvement in the sport.
The Veterans World Wrestling Championships, organised by United World Wrestling, brings together athletes aged 35 and above to compete in Greco-Roman and freestyle wrestling. The event provides a platform for veteran wrestlers to showcase their skills and compete at the international level. Mika's medal has written Nigeria's name in the record books of world veterans wrestling.
Adeniyi's congratulatory message to Mika and Tunde King highlights the federation's commitment to supporting veteran wrestlers. The medal has strengthened Nigeria's growing reputation in the sport, and Adeniyi believes that it will inspire other veteran wrestlers to follow in Mika's footsteps. The Nigeria Wrestling Federation is working to promote the sport and develop the skills of wrestlers of all ages.
The achievement of Mika and Tunde King is a testament to the enduring commitment of Nigeria's veterans to the development of wrestling. Adeniyi's message emphasised the importance of recognising the contributions of former athletes and keeping them connected to the sport. The Nigeria Wrestling Federation's strategic blueprint includes initiatives to support the welfare and involvement of veteran wrestlers.
As the Veterans World Wrestling Championships continue in Amman, Jordan, Nigeria's medal win is a significant milestone for the country's wrestling community. The achievement of Mika and Tunde King will inspire younger wrestlers and promote the sport in Nigeria. The Nigeria Wrestling Federation will continue to support veteran wrestlers and promote the development of wrestling in the country.
Key points
- Nigeria's Elias Mika wins bronze at Veterans World Wrestling Championships in Jordan.
