The Traditional Sports Federation of Nigeria (TSFN) has disclosed that preparations are in top gear to stage the second edition of Traditional Sports National Open Championship in Abuja.
The Championship which will feature five African sports; Ayo, Dambe, Abula, Langa and Kokowa will take place at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium Abuja from August 14 to 16, 2023.
TSFN President, Honourable Olomo Agbadabina, speaking with Tribune Sports ahead of the event, said the federation is working round the clock to ensure a hitch-free championship.
“We have the national championship for traditional sports featuring Langa, Dambe, Ayo, Kokowa and Abula starting on Monday. The Federation is ready to stage a befitting championship.
“We have set the stage and I can tell you that security is on ground, the medical team is on ground too and I can assure you that the championship will be a success.
Agbadabina added that the objective of the championship is to promote the development of the game in Nigeria.
“Among other things, it is expected that we create awareness for the developmental promotion of traditional sports at the grass-root level.
“We are also using the championship to prepare our athletes for the upcoming ECOWAS Traditional Wrestling. I sincerely believe that traditional sports will become a household name in Nigeria soon.
Agbadabina however is seeking the support of well-meaning Nigerians and corporate organisations to support traditional sports in the country.
“Our main challenge is funding and I am using the medium to appeal to government and corporate organisations to help fund some of our programs,” Agbadabina said.
Tribune Sports reports that Nigeria came third in the last ECOWAS Traditional Wrestling Championship which took place in Niamey, Niger Republic.
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