World Taekwondo Jidokwan Federation Honours Nigerian Grand Masters

It was an emotional evening at the Nigeria Taekwondo Federation National Open Trials as two Nigerian Taekwondo Grand Masters were honoured by the World Taekwondo Jidokwan Federation.

The ceremony, held inside the Multi-Purpose Hall of the Alake Sports Centre, Ijeja, Abeokuta, Ogun State, saw Grand Master Sunday Koffi Akani and Grand Master Dominic Asuquo Bassey decorated and recognised for attaining the prestigious 7th Dan rank.

The presentation of certificates and recognition took place immediately after the scheduled Kukkiwon Dan Grading Test.

World Taekwondo Federation representative and President of the World Taekwondo Masters Union, Grand Master Kim Lee, described the honourees as ‘symbols of dedication and honour deserving of celebration.’

‘On behalf of the World Taekwondo Jidokwan family, we are honoured to decorate you today for the efforts you have put into the growth of Taekwondo from its early days until now,’ Kim Lee stated.

‘You both have laboured tirelessly, and this honour is a symbol that your hard work and sacrifices have not been in vain.’

Grand Master Sunday Koffi Akani, visibly moved, expressed gratitude for receiving the recognition after decades of commitment to the sport.

‘You may not understand the reason behind my tears. It is because this honour is coming while I am still alive to receive it with my own hands after 54 years of hard work,’ he said.

Akani added that he continues to train at Ikoyi Club in Lagos and thanked Nigeria Taekwondo Federation President, Grand Master Tayo Popoola, for his support.

Offering advice to younger athletes, Akani urged them to remain focused and disciplined.

‘Money should not be their major target. They should work hard and help grow the sport because that dedication is what will eventually take them to the top,’ he said.

The recognition ceremony was one of the major highlights of the ongoing National Open Trials.