The National Sports Commission (NSC) today officially inaugurated the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) for the 14th Africa Armwrestling Championship, set to take place in Abuja from July 23 to 27, 2025.

The event was held at the Media Center, Moshood Abiola National Stadium, bringing together key sports stakeholders, government officials, and LOC members to mark the beginning of preparations for the prestigious continental championship.

The LOC, which will oversee the planning and execution of the championship, is chaired by Hon. Adeboye Adeyinka, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Grassroots Development.

Engr. Samuel Jackson, President of the Nigeria Armwrestling Federation, serves as the Vice Chairman, alongside Amb. Paul Maduagu, Chairman/CEO of Prostar Sports International, who also holds the position of Vice Chairman LOC. Other key members include:

Mr. Okoli Obinali (Chair Marketing)

Ms. Debbie Larry-Izamoje: (Chair Media)

Prince Capt. Daniel Agbenike (Chair Logistics)

Dr. Bukola Bojuwoye: (Chair Medical & Doping)

Mr. Phemmy Adetula: (Chair Protocol)

Mr. Jide-Ojo Jide Olusola : (Chair Ceremony)

Ms. Amina Omoike: (LOC Member)

Mr. Taoreed Adebayo Salami: (LOC Member)

DSP Kazy Sunday Rtd: (LOC Member)

Mr. Kehinde Odegbile: (LOC Member)

Mr. Akapo O. Samson, Secretary General of NAWF (LOC Secretariat)

Mr. Biola Odetola  (LOC MEMBER)

Malam Ahmad Kawu (LOC MEMBER)

The inauguration ceremony was graced by several special guests, including:

Navy Commodore MS Olukoya, Vice President of the Nigeria Armwrestling Federation

Hon. Oluwatoyin Fayinka Moses, Representative of the Chairman, House Committee on Sports

Mallam Salihu Abubakar, Representative of the Chairman, NSC

Barr. Musa Amadu, Aide to the NSC Chairman

Hon. Kafilat Ogbara, House of Representatives Member

Hon. Afolabi Afuwape, House of Representatives Member

Speaking at the inauguration, Mallam Salihu Abubakar, representing the NSC Chairman, emphasized the importance of the Africa Armwrestling Championship in promoting Nigeria as a hub for international sporting events. He reaffirmed the NSC’s commitment to supporting the LOC in ensuring a seamless and successful tournament.

In his remarks, Hon. Adeboye Adeyinka, the LOC Chairman, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the committee and pledged to work tirelessly with all members to deliver a world-class championship. Engr. Samuel Jackson, President of the Nigeria Armwrestling Federation, highlighted Nigeria’s readiness to host the tournament, stating that the event would not only boost the popularity of armwrestling in the country but also contribute to economic and sports development.

The 14th Africa Armwrestling Championship will attract top athletes, officials, and fans from across the continent. With the LOC now inaugurated, preparations will intensify to ensure Nigeria delivers an unforgettable sporting spectacle.