NWF President Adeniyi Donates Brand-New Bus to Nigerian Wrestling Federation

By Arinzechi Chukwunonso

Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and recently elected President of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation (NWF), Bashir Adeniyi, has donated a brand-new bus to the Federation to boost logistics and ease the movement of athletes.

The donation was made on Saturday during Adeniyi’s visit to the national wrestling team’s camp at Package B of the Moshood Abiola Stadium, Abuja, where the athletes are rounding off preparations for the upcoming Islamic Solidarity Games in Saudi Arabia.

Presenting the vehicle keys to the Federation’s Secretary, Adeniyi described the donation as his first official assignment since assuming leadership of the NWF. He said the gesture reflects his commitment to enhancing athletes’ welfare and strengthening support systems for the national team.

“Since that unfortunate accident involving the team last year on their way back from a tournament in Bayelsa — which claimed lives and damaged their vehicle — I made up my mind to replace it,” he said.

“This bus is a token of appreciation for the sacrifices of our athletes and a step towards improving their welfare.”

During the visit, the NWF President interacted with wrestlers and coaches, commending their discipline, hard work, and determination ahead of the Games. He also emphasized the importance of integrity and fair play, urging athletes to represent Nigeria with pride and honesty.

“We do not want to achieve glory through foul means,” Adeniyi charged. “Go out there, compete clean, and win clean. I would prefer a disciplined athlete to an indisciplined winner.”

Looking ahead, the NWF President expressed optimism about the bright future of Nigerian wrestling, citing the emergence of young, vibrant athletes ready to take the mantle from seasoned champions like Blessing Oborududu and Mercy Genesis.

He pledged that his administration will prioritize better welfare packages, more international exposure, and long-term career support for athletes — even beyond their competitive years.

“We will be bold and intentional about improving athletes’ welfare,” he said. “Our goal is to help them transition into other areas of the sport — coaching, officiating, administration, or even sports journalism — because we value their contributions and believe in their potential.”

Adeniyi also disclosed plans to expand similar corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives to other sports bodies, including the National Sports Commission and the Nigeria Football Federation, underscoring his belief in sports as a powerful tool for youth empowerment and national development.

He concluded by charging the wrestlers to remain focused and disciplined as they head to Saudi Arabia.