NWF Targets Global Breakthrough After Record World Championships Outing

Posted : 04 November 2026

The Nigeria Wrestling Federation (NWF) has expressed optimism about the country's prospects of achieving global success after presenting a record 11 athletes at the 2026 World Wrestling Championships in Astana, Kazakhstan.

NWF President, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, described Nigeria's participation as a significant milestone, insisting that the experience gained by the wrestlers would contribute to the country's long-term development in the sport.

Although Team Nigeria returned without a medal, Adeniyi said the athletes' progress to the semi-final and knockout stages demonstrated their growing ability to compete against some of the world's best wrestlers.

He commended the contingent for their patriotism, determination and commitment, assuring that the federation would continue to strengthen its support for athletes.

According to him, achieving success at the highest level requires sustained investment, quality preparation and regular exposure to elite international competitions.

"I want to commend our wrestlers for their patriotism, determination, and commitment in representing Nigeria at the World Wrestling Championships. As a federation, we will always appreciate the sacrifices and efforts of our athletes in representing this country, irrespective of the outcome. What matters is their commitment to national assignment and determination to give their best.

"Medals are important, but they are not won overnight. We must continue to invest in our athletes, expose them to quality international competitions, and ensure that they have the necessary support to compete favourably against the best in the world," Adeniyi said.

The NWF president explained that the federation's objectives in Astana extended beyond medal expectations, with emphasis on assessing the athletes' capabilities against elite opposition and identifying areas requiring improvement.

He noted that competing at the world championships provided invaluable experience, particularly for wrestlers seeking to bridge the gap between continental success and global competitiveness.

Adeniyi assured that the federation would sustain its development initiatives and create a more enabling environment for athletes to improve their performances at subsequent international competitions.

Nigeria's participation with 11 wrestlers, the highest number the country has ever presented at the World Wrestling Championships, represents an important step in expanding its presence on the international wrestling stage.

The federation expressed confidence that with sustained investment, improved preparation and greater international exposure, Nigerian wrestlers would eventually translate their growing competitiveness into podium finishes at future world championships.

NWF Targets Global Breakthrough After Record World Championships Outing

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