The Nigeria Wrestling Federation (NWF) has achieved a historic milestone at the ongoing Veterans World Wrestling Championships in Amman, Jordan. President of the NWF, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, congratulated Team Nigeria on their first-ever medal at the championships. The event, organised by United World Wrestling (UWW), features Greco-Roman and Freestyle wrestling for athletes aged 35 and above.
The championship is taking place from October 6 to 11, 2026, and has brought together wrestling veterans from around the world. Mapsin Elias Mika, a wrestling veteran and former national champion, secured a bronze medal in the 70kg Greco-Roman wrestling category. This achievement marks Nigeria's maiden podium finish at the Veterans World Wrestling Championships.
In a congratulatory message, Adeniyi commended Mika for his outstanding performance, describing the achievement as a moment of pride for Nigeria and the wrestling community. The historic medal has written Nigeria's name in the record books of world veterans wrestling, further strengthening the country's growing presence on the international wrestling scene.
Adeniyi also acknowledged the contribution of veteran coach Babatunde James, popularly known as Tunde King, for his role in guiding and supporting Mika in his successful campaign. The NWF President emphasised the importance of veterans and legends in the growth of wrestling, adding that their experience and knowledge could play a vital role in inspiring and mentoring the younger generation.
The NWF has deliberately incorporated veteran wrestling into its strategic blueprint, recognising the contributions of former athletes and keeping them actively connected to the sport. Adeniyi assured Nigeria's wrestling legends and veterans that the current NWF Board would continue to support initiatives that promote their welfare, involvement, and contributions to the sport.
The achievement underscores the dedication and passion of Nigeria's wrestling veterans, even after retiring from active competition. Mika's medal is a testament to the country's enduring commitment to the development of wrestling. The NWF Board's support for veteran wrestling is expected to further enhance the country's presence on the international stage.
The Nigeria Wrestling Federation's efforts to promote veteran wrestling are expected to yield more results in the future. With the country's growing presence on the international stage, wrestling enthusiasts are optimistic about the sport's prospects in Nigeria. The historic achievement is a moment of immense pride for Nigeria and the entire wrestling community.
Key points
- Nigeria's Mapsin Elias Mika wins bronze medal in 70kg Greco-Roman wrestling category at Veterans World Wrestling Championships.
- The achievement marks Nigeria's maiden podium finish at the Veterans World Wrestling Championships.
- The Nigeria Wrestling Federation has incorporated veteran wrestling into its strategic blueprint to recognise the contributions of former athletes.
