NJF and Abia State Host Inaugural Judo Championship

The 1st Governor Alex Otti National Senior Judo Championship is set to occur in Umuahia from November 2 to November 5. Organized by the Nigeria Judo Federation (NJF) in collaboration with the Abia State Government, the championship will feature teams from 11 states, including Bayelsa, Ogun, Edo, Delta, Benue, Kano, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Enugu, Osun, and Kwara, as well as eight clubs from across Nigeria.

A total of 14 weight categories will be contested, with the top three athletes in each category receiving prize money of ₦250,000, ₦150,000, and ₦100,000. Sule Musa, the Acting Technical Director of the NJF, stated that the competition serves as a rallying point for athletes and stakeholders to rebuild judo in Nigeria.

The event has received support from former African Games champion Katherine Ewa, who views it as a significant boost for athletes. Musa expressed optimism about discovering new talent and enhancing the sport's profile in Nigeria.