EKITI STATE SET TO HOST FIRST WRESTLING DEVELOPMENT CLINIC
In a bold step to expand grassroots sports, the Ekiti State Office of Sport Development has announced its first-ever elite wrestling training clinic, in collaboration with Nigeria’s national women’s wrestling coach, Akuh Purity. The two-day program is scheduled for August 14 and 15, 2025, at the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium, Ado-Ekiti.
The initiative, which targets boys and girls aged 10 to 18, is completely free and aims to formally introduce wrestling into the state’s sports ecosystem. It aligns with the grassroots sports vision of Governor Biodun Oyebanji, who has consistently emphasized youth development, discipline, and talent discovery through sport.
Coach Akuh Purity stands as one of Africa’s most accomplished wrestling coaches, having led Nigeria’s women’s team to success at the Olympic Games, Commonwealth Games, and African Wrestling Championships. At the 2024 African Championships in Morocco, he guided the team to 10 gold medals — nine of which were won by female athletes.
Participants in the clinic will receive hands-on training, mentorship, and career guidance from Coach Akuh, who has tutored global champions such as Blessing Oborodudu (Tokyo 2020 Olympic silver medalist) and Odunayo Adekuoroye (multi-time World Championship medalist).
“This is a strategic milestone for us in Ekiti,” said Dr. Olusola Osetoba, Technical Advisor on Sport Development. “We are not just introducing a new sport to the state — we’re creating access to world-class mentorship and structured development. It’s Governor Oyebanji’s grassroots revolution in action.”
Beyond training, the clinic will serve as a talent discovery platform, sparking increased interest in combat sports across the state.
Registration is now open for all interested participants within the 10–18 age bracket. With top-tier coaching and a bold new direction, Ekiti is positioning itself as a rising force in Nigeria’s sports development landscape.
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