By Eunice Nnachi, Yenagoa
Governor of Bayelsa State, Douye Diri, has officially declared the 4th Governor Douye Diri National Wrestling Classics closed after a week-long display of skill, resilience, and intense competition in Yenagoa.
Speaking during the closing ceremony on Wednesday, the governor commended participants for their outstanding performances, describing all athletes as winners regardless of their final standings. He encouraged those who did not secure podium finishes to remain determined and use the experience as motivation for future success.
Diri highlighted Bayelsa State’s growing reputation as a hub for wrestling excellence, noting that both the state and Nigeria continue to produce top talents capable of dominating at continental and global levels.
He said Nigeria remains a formidable force in African wrestling and expressed optimism that the country would soon produce more world champions.
Also speaking, a representative of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation President, Chris Amkpila, lauded the governor’s sustained commitment to sports development. He noted that the administration’s support has significantly improved the quality of the competition over the years.
Amkpila pointed out key innovations in this year’s edition, including improved accommodation arrangements facilitated through collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Service, provision of free meals, and transportation for athletes, all of which contributed to a more comfortable and organized tournament environment.
In his welcome address, the Bayelsa State Commissioner for Sports Development, Daniel Igali, described the tournament as groundbreaking. He revealed that, for the first time in the history of Nigerian sports federations, athletes received participation fees at a national championship.
Igali added that, beyond individual medals, substantial prize money was awarded to the top three states and clubs, a move he said would positively impact future competitions and athlete morale. He also appreciated partners and stakeholders for their contributions to the success of the event while calling for continued support.
At the end of the tournament, Team Bayelsa emerged overall champions, while Dynamite Club and the Nigerian Army secured second and third positions, respectively.
The successful hosting of the championship further reinforces Bayelsa’s position as a leading center for wrestling development in Nigeria.
