Wrestling Federation President, Bashir Adeniyi, Celebrates Bayelsa at 30, Nigeria at 66, Backs Team Nigeria Ahead of World Championships
The President of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation (NWF), Dr. Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, PhD, on Thursday visited Team Nigeria’s wrestlers at the Wrestling Federation premises in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, as the state celebrates its 30th anniversary and Nigeria marks its 66th Independence Anniversary.
Adeniyi, who is also the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, described the occasion as a significant moment to identify with the athletes who have been in camp in preparation for the forthcoming World Wrestling Championships in Astana, Kazakhstan. The 2026 championships are scheduled for October 24 to November 1, with Team Nigeria currently undergoing intensive preparations in Bayelsa and Ondo States.
Speaking during the visit, the NWF President highlighted Bayelsa’s remarkable contribution to Nigerian wrestling, describing the state as a major home of wrestling in Nigeria and Africa based on the performances produced from the state over the years. He said his presence was also intended to motivate the athletes and assure them of the federation’s support as they prepare for a major international assignment, with Olympic qualification opportunities also at stake.
Adeniyi urged the wrestlers to remain focused and committed to their preparations, stressing the importance of giving the athletes the right motivation and support ahead of the championship in Kazakhstan. He also spoke about Ruben, who experienced disappointment after the African Championships in Egypt but has returned to camp to contribute to the team’s preparations. He described her return as an example of how athletes can overcome setbacks and continue contributing to the sport.
The NWF President further disclosed that Nigeria is expected to take about 10 female wrestlers and three male wrestlers to the World Championships.
His visit therefore provided an opportunity to strengthen the connection between the federation’s leadership and the athletes as Team Nigeria intensifies its final preparations.
The visit added a strong sporting dimension to the celebrations of Bayelsa @30 and Nigeria @66, bringing together the state’s rich wrestling tradition, national pride and the aspirations of Nigerian athletes preparing to compete on the world stage.