By Abdullahi Abdulrahman
National News – Day 2 of the 4th Governor Douye Diri National Wrestling Classics in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, kicked off with exciting wrestling matches that immediately captivated spectators. Athletes demonstrated remarkable fitness, skill, and agility, eliciting awe and applause from judges and fans alike.
Key results from the day included:
Wonibokefi Jude of Team Bayelsa State Sports Academy (31kg) defeated his Enugu opponent 14–8 to advance to the next round.
Timipa Blessed of Team Bayelsa triumphed over John Ebiowei of Team Delta in the 41kg weight category.
Favour Syracus of Team Cross River powered his way to a silver medal in the men’s 48kg category.
The day also welcomed the arrival of prominent dignitaries, including Alhaji Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, President of the Nigerian Wrestling Federation (NWF), and Professor Nimibofa Ayawei, Secretary to the State Government (SSG) of Bayelsa State.
The SSG officially declared the day’s events open on behalf of Governor Douye Diri, setting the stage for continued high-intensity bouts, talent discovery, and Nigeria’s dominance in African and global wrestling.
The opening ceremony featured a parade of wrestling state teams, military and paramilitary organizations, schools, and clubs, alongside a stunning cultural display by the Bayelsa State Cultural Troupe.
Addressing the athletes, Alhaji Adeniyi stressed strict adherence to the rules, noting that the Federation maintains zero tolerance for unruly behavior.
He also announced that every registered athlete would receive a 25,000-naira allowance, with prize money set aside for podium finishers.
Professor Ayawei praised the NWF President and the Federation’s sponsors for the smooth coordination of the event.
He also highlighted that Bayelsa State is constructing a 20,000-capacity stadium, expected to be completed next year, specifically to host the 2028 National Sports Festival.
The Federation expressed gratitude to Senator Douye Diri, Executive Governor of Bayelsa State, for his consistent support of wrestling programs.
Alhaji Ahmadu Saleh was also acknowledged as the official sponsor of the Federation for his unwavering financial backing.
