Team Bayelsa Crowned Champions as Governor Diri Closes 4th National Wrestling Classics

The curtain has fallen on the 4th Governor Douye Diri National Wrestling Classics in Yenagoa, with Team Bayelsa emerging overall champions after a week of thrilling contests.

Governor Douye Diri, who declared the championship closed on Wednesday, praised the athletes for their resilience and sportsmanship. He described every participant as a winner, urging those who missed out on medals to see the setback as motivation for future improvement.

‘Nigeria and indeed Bayelsa State have been a fertile ground for wrestling,’ Diri said. ‘My prayer is that we will not just rule Africa alone but produce more standard world champions.’

The Nigeria Wrestling Federation, represented by its First Vice President Chris Amkpila, commended Governor Diri’s unwavering support for the sport.

Amkpila noted that this year’s edition introduced significant upgrades, including accommodation provided by the Nigeria Customs Service, free meals, and shuttle buses for athletes. He lauded Bayelsa’s hospitality and hinted at returning for future editions.

Bayelsa State Commissioner for Sports Development, Honourable Daniel Igali, highlighted the historic nature of the event, pointing out that for the first time in Nigerian sports federation history, athletes received participation fees in addition to prize money for medalists and top‑ranking states and clubs.

Igali, who also serves on the World Wrestling Governing Body (UWW), emphasized the positive impact of these incentives on future competitions while appealing for continued support.

At the end of the championship, Team Bayelsa claimed the top spot, Dynamite Club finished second, and the Nigerian Army secured third place.