The Nigeria Taekwondo Federation (NTF) has launched a new team-based competition format aimed at enhancing athletes' skills and preparing them for major international events. This initiative was introduced through the maiden Michael Opeyemi Bamidele (MOB) National Taekwondo Club/Team Championship. The championship, which began on Friday at the Indoor Sports Hall, National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos, features teams from states, clubs, universities, and institutions across the country.
According to NTF President, Temitayo Popoola, the new format is designed to improve athletes' stamina, consistency, timing, and competitiveness. She stated that the championship would help prepare Nigerian athletes for major international competitions, including the Olympic Games and African Games. Popoola noted that this kind of competition is not new in other countries but is a first in Nigeria.
The championship features Team Kyorugi (Tag-Match Sparring) and Team Poomsae events for senior and junior categories. Popoola revealed that Nigerian athletes have recently won medals at the African Taekwondo Championship in May, including medals in Poomsae and Para Taekwondo. The federation's remaining programmes for the year include the University Taekwondo Championship and the Korean Ambassador's event.
Popoola commended the media for their support of taekwondo and emphasized the importance of providing athletes with quality equipment. She expressed her gratitude to the sponsor, Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, for his support, which was driven by his commitment to sports development and confidence in the leadership of the NTF.
Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, the sponsor of the championship, described taekwondo as an elegant sport and sports as a scientific sector with significant economic importance. He promised continued support for the championship and announced July 29, 2027, for the next edition. Bamidele stated that preparations for the 2027 championship would begin immediately, with plans to make it bigger and attract more participants.
Lekan Fatodu, Director-General, Lagos State Sports Commission, highlighted the importance of sports in developing talents and creating opportunities for young people. He noted that this approach would also help keep youths away from criminality and provide athletes for the national pool. Fatodu's comments underscored the significance of the championship in promoting sports development in Nigeria.
The Nigeria Taekwondo Federation's initiative has been well-received by stakeholders, with many expressing optimism about its impact on the sport. With the introduction of this new team-based competition format, the NTF aims to strengthen its athletes' skills and enhance their competitiveness on the international stage. The federation's efforts are expected to yield positive results in the coming years.
Key points
- The Nigeria Taekwondo Federation introduces a new team-based competition format to strengthen athletes' skills.
- The championship features Team Kyorugi and Team Poomsae events for senior and junior categories.
- The next edition of the championship is scheduled for July 29, 2027.
