Global Stars Arrive in Abuja As Nigeria Welcomes World Referee for 2025 Armwrestling Championship

With just 2 days to go, the momentum is unstoppable. Nigeria is officially in championship mode as the nation prepares to host the 14th African Armwrestling Championship, set to explode into action on July 23rd, 2025 in Abuja.

As part of heightened preparations, Nigeria has welcomed Olegs Gantimurovs, one of the world’s most respected Master World Armwrestling Referees, who is now on ground to lead the officiating setup and raise the technical bar for the event. His arrival signals a commitment to global standards and fair play.

Joining the buildup in Abuja are Mr. Charles Osei Asibey, President of the Armwrestling Federation of Africa (AFA), and the Secretary of the continental body — further underlining the magnitude of the championship and Nigeria’s central role in the sport’s evolution on the continent.

Meanwhile, excitement is building as waves of international athletes are set to begin landing later today, with representatives from over 20 African nations expected, including South Africa, Ghana, Cameroon, Egypt, Togo, and Madagascar. A total of over 400 athletes and officials are confirmed for this showdown — a record turnout for the championship.

The Local Organizing Committee, under the leadership of Hon. Adeyinka Adeboye, SSA to the President on Grassroots Sports Development, has assured that all logistics, venues, and athlete accommodations are ready. Training venues are buzzing, the Athletes’ Village is primed, and media crews are arriving for full-scale coverage.

From the fire of the last African Games — where Nigeria’s armwrestlers delivered 13 medals including four golds — to the promise of a new era, Abuja is about to witness a storm of power, pride, and unity.

As the countdown enters its final stretch, the message is clear: Nigeria is ready. The world is watching. The warriors are here.