Nigeria wrestling family felicitates with Igali on his birthday

By Our Reporter

THE board of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation (NWF), coaches, referees and wrestlers have felicitated with NWF President Hon. Daniel Igali on the occasion of his 47th birthday.

Born on the 3rd of February, 1974, the Bayelsa State Commissioner for Youth and Sports was already a National, African and Commonwealth wrestling champion before switching allegiance to Canada in 1994, where he won the World Championships (1999) and 2000 Olympic gold in Ankara, Turkey and Sydney, Australia respectively – becoming the first Canadian to achieve that feat in the sport. 

On behalf of the board, Secretary General of the Federation Patrick Abodi said: “Happy Birthday, Sir. Age with grace, our amiable and dynamic sports administrator.”

 

Head of the referees at the federation Usman Yusuf described Hon. Igali as a “visionary, purposeful and caring leader”, while praying God to “grant him the wisdom to steer Nigerian wrestling to greater heights.”

 

National team head coach Purity Akuh described the seasoned administrator as the ‘Best Sports Federation President’.

 

“The way and manner you direct the affairs of the federation clearly shows that you are the best sports federation president in the country.” He said.

 

“May God give you the grace to achieve even more for our sport.

 

“Enjoy your day and remain blessed, Presido!”

 

Meanwhile, captain of the female national team and 10-time African champion Blessing Oborududu said: “Happy Birthday, Sir.

 

“I wish you many more years of celebration, and may God give you the wisdom and grace to take our sport to the peak and to achieve more success.”

 

On his part, captain of the men’s team and multiple African champion Amas Daniel described the erstwhile Lawmaker as an icon and role model.

 

“With respect to your achievements in wrestling, we all look up to you as our role model,” he said. “You are a global icon with numerous laurels to your credit.

 

“May God grant you more fruitful years, as you mark this special day.”

An accomplished athlete, respected Lawmaker and tested and trusted administrator with a proven track record, Igali has been piloting the affairs of the NWF since 2013.

Under his watch, Nigerian wrestlers have gained global recognition, winning lots of laurels internationally – including 5 World Championships medals, three of which were won by World No. 2 Odunayo Adekuoroye (57kg).