Igali Declares Bayelsa Ready for National Wrestling Showpiece in Yenagoa
Bayelsa State has declared its readiness to host the nation as the 4th Governor Douye Diri National Wrestling Championship prepares to take centre stage in Yenagoa.
The event, organized by the Bayelsa State Government in collaboration with the Nigeria Wrestling Federation, will run from December 12 to 20, 2025, bringing together the country’s finest wrestlers for a week-long battle on the mat.
At a world press conference in Yenagoa, Commissioner for Sports Development Honourable Daniel Igali assured that Bayelsa will deliver one of the most glamorous championships yet, crediting Governor Douye Diri’s passion and commitment to sports development.
He emphasized that the governor has consistently supported the Nigeria Wrestling Federation, giving him confidence that this year’s edition will surpass previous ones.
Igali, who is also a member of the World Wrestling Governing Body (UWW), announced several innovations for the 2025 championship. Three new weight categories have been added to each style, bringing the total to fifteen in women’s wrestling, fifteen in Greco-Roman, and fifteen in men’s freestyle.
The under-15 category will also feature five new divisions, a move aimed at investing in the next generation of Nigerian wrestlers.
For the first time, the championship will include traditional wrestling, now recognized as beach wrestling, with four weight classes for both men and women. The main events will be staged at the Samson Siasia Stadium, while beach wrestling will take place at Bayelsa Medical University grounds in Amarata, Yenagoa.
Delegates are expected to arrive on December 12, with competitions beginning on December 14.
Igali expressed optimism that Bayelsa will once again showcase its capacity to host a world-class sporting event, continuing a tradition that dates back to 2009.
