By Daily Sports Nigeria on August 20, 2024

The President of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation, Daniel Igali, has tendered an apology to Nigerians following the disappointing performances of the country’s wrestlers at the Paris 2024 Olympics, The PUNCH reports.

Despite being one of the nations with high expectations, Team Nigeria’s wrestlers failed to clinch any medals, leading to widespread disappointment.

In a reception organised by the Nigeria Wrestling Federation to welcome back the wrestlers, Igali acknowledged the country’s high hopes, particularly considering the federation’s track record in global competitions.

“We apologise to Nigerians for not reaching the climax that we set for ourselves,” Igali said.

“In the past, no federation in Nigeria’s history has won six world championships. It is only the wrestling Federation.”

The event, which also had the Comptroller-General of Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, in attendance, was aimed at boosting the morale of the athletes and demonstrating continued support despite the setback.

Adeniyi, who is also a board member of the federation, emphasised the importance of solidarity in both triumphs and challenges.

“We stay together when we are happy and stay together when we are not happy. The reception offers us an opportunity to appreciate our athletes and officials for their efforts,” Adeniyi remarked.

He further expressed confidence in the team’s ability to bounce back with the right support and environment.

The reception featured reflections on the challenges of preparing for the Olympics, with Adeniyi noting that while the Games occur every four years, athletes often spend a decade training for a single appearance.

Despite the Paris disappointment, Adeniyi remained optimistic about the future, saying, “It’s not the end of the world because we know they have done it before and, with the right support, they will do it again.”

Six wrestlers represented Nigeria in Paris, including Christianah Ogunsanya (53 kg), Esther Kolawole (62 kg), Odunayo Adekuoroye (57 kg), Hannah Reuben (76 kg), Blessing Oborududu (68 kg), and US-based Ashton Mutuwa (125 kg).

Despite their best efforts, the wrestlers were unable to replicate their past successes on the Olympic stage.

Source Punch Ng

Posted August 20, 2024

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