Nigeria Wrestling Federation President Motivates Team for 2026 Championships

Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, the President of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation and Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, charged Team Nigeria to represent the country with pride at the 2026 World Wrestling Championships in Astana, Kazakhstan. The contingent departed from Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on October 23.

The championships are scheduled to run until November 1. Nigeria is sending a total of 11 wrestlers, comprising eight women and three men.

Adeniyi emphasized the importance of translating their African dominance into strong performances on the world stage, expressing high expectations for the team to restore Nigeria's medal-winning fortunes at the championships after a three-year drought. The female wrestlers include Genesis Mercy Miesinnei (50kg), Ogunsanya Christianah Tolulope (53kg), Idris Adijat Avorshai (55kg), Adekoye Jumoke Bukola (57kg), Asaolu Esther Olamide (59kg), Kolawole Esther (62kg), Adekuoroye Mercy (68kg), and Ojo Damola Hannah (76kg).

The male wrestlers are Akintewe Stephen Tope (65kg), Andrew Ebierelayefa Allison (74kg), and Onovwiomogbhwo Harrison (97kg). The coaching staff includes Akuh Purity, Blessing Oborududu, Agberekeme Areh, and Kadel Jacob Lee, with officials including Adeniyi, Vice President Amkpila Christopher, and Secretary General Ademisoro Bode Oluwasegun.