Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
YENAGOA, NIGERIA — After a week of electrifying athletic competition, the 4th Governor Douye Diri National Wrestling Classics drew to a close on Wednesday in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, confirming its status as one of Nigeria’s premier wrestling events. The championship, which ran from March 25 to April 1, 2026, attracted hundreds of wrestlers from across the federation who competed in several disciplines. Organisers, officials, and fans described the tournament as a milestone in the development of wrestling at both national and continental levels.
This year’s edition was distinguished by improved organisation, record participation, and several historic performances. Over 600 athletes from all 36 states, as well as prominent clubs, competed, reflecting the depth of talent in Nigerian wrestling and the increasing institutional support for the sport. The event made headlines with the inclusion of beach wrestling, a rapidly growing international discipline making its debut at a national championship in Nigeria. Conducted on open sand, this segment offered a new competitive dynamic that thrilled spectators and highlighted emerging talent, requiring athletes to adapt their balance, strength, and strategy to a novel environment. Officials and coaches noted that the introduction of beach wrestling represents a step forward in aligning Nigerian wrestling with global trends.
The tournament was organised by the Bayelsa State Ministry of Sports Development in partnership with the Nigeria Wrestling Federation. Bayelsa’s hosting underscored the state’s reputation as a developing hub for wrestling, supported through government investment in infrastructure and athlete development. The state emerged as the overall champion of the competition, topping the medal table with 22 gold medals, seven silver, and 16 bronze, accumulating a total of 935 points. Their performance spanned Greco-Roman, freestyle, and beach wrestling disciplines, demonstrating both breadth and depth of talent. Strong performances also came from the Dynamite Club and the Nigerian Army team, with other states including Cross River, Edo, and Ondo achieving notable medal hauls that highlighted the competitive diversity present in Nigerian wrestling.
In the Greco-Roman discipline, seasoned champions and rising stars impressed spectators with a series of high-level matches. Pakistan Alfred of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps defended his 67kg title with decisive victories, while Augustine Okuro of Delta State retained his crown in the super heavyweight category. Emerging talent was also on display as Harrison Onovwiomogbohwo of Bayelsa State captured his first Greco-Roman gold in the 97kg class, defeating strong competitors and signaling his potential on the national stage.
Freestyle competitions delivered equally compelling narratives, with Bayelsa athletes dominating several weight categories. Wrestlers including Erofagha Dideikenei, Solomon Ulabo, and Zikeanh Amen claimed gold in the 70kg, 82kg, and 125kg divisions respectively. Veteran competitors such as Tochukwu Okeke of the Nigerian Army also maintained their stronghold in heavier brackets. The women’s events were marked by intense competition and skillful performances. Khadijat Idris of Ondo State retained her position as a leading wrestler by winning gold in the 55kg category, while Patience Kakanda of Bayelsa thrilled the audience with her victory in the 62kg division. Other female athletes, including Esther Asaolu of Rivers State and Damola Ojo of Ondo State, successfully defended their titles, demonstrating the growing depth of talent in women’s wrestling across the nation.
Established stars further reinforced their status with standout performances. Mercy Adekuoroye of Rivers State retained her 65kg title, demonstrating experience and tactical expertise, while Welson Ebikewenimo of Bayelsa successfully defended his gold in the 57kg male category. One of the tournament’s most closely contested matches saw Godday Eseimokumo of Bayelsa dethrone Femi Jackson of Rivers State in the 86kg class, rallying from a narrow deficit to secure victory in a tightly scored bout.
The closing ceremony featured remarks from Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri, who praised all participants for their dedication and sportsmanship, noting that every athlete contributed to the success of the tournament regardless of medal outcomes. He highlighted the importance of wrestling to the state’s social and sporting agenda and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing opportunities for athletes to develop and compete at high levels. Representatives from the Nigeria Wrestling Federation commended Bayelsa’s organisational support and emphasised improvements in athlete welfare, including participation fees and logistical assistance, as significant steps forward for national competitions.
Officials pointed out that the Classics played a crucial role in elevating Nigeria’s wrestling profile, providing athletes with exposure and competitive experience necessary to succeed at continental and international levels. The introduction of beach wrestling, coupled with continued investment in traditional Greco-Roman and freestyle formats, reflected a commitment to raising standards and nurturing talent capable of representing Nigeria in events such as the Commonwealth Games and the Olympics.
As the 4th Governor Douye Diri National Wrestling Classics concluded, it left a lasting impact on the Nigerian wrestling landscape. The combination of historic achievements, the debut of innovative formats, and widespread participation ensured the tournament would be remembered as a defining event in the sport’s development. The success of this edition is expected to influence the planning of future competitions, deepen grassroots development, and provide a stronger platform for aspiring wrestlers across the country.
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