‘Wrestling has given me everything’: Daniel Igali Bows Out After 12 Years as Nigeria Wrestling Federation President
After twelve transformative years at the helm of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation (NWF), Olympic medalist and world champion Daniel Igali has officially stepped down as president, marking the end of an era defined by passion, progress, and unparalleled achievement.
His departure comes in accordance with the National Sports Commission’s tenure guidelines, capping a journey that began on dusty mats and culminated in national glory.
Igali, whose wrestling career spans decades as an athlete, coach, technical adviser, and administrator, reflected on his tenure with deep emotion and gratitude.
‘Wrestling has given me everything,’ he said. ‘It has been my teacher, my mirror, and my home.’ Under his leadership, Nigerian wrestling experienced a renaissance, amassing over 150 African Championships and African Games gold medals, nine Commonwealth Games golds, five World Championship medals, and one Olympic silver medal.
In a move that underscores the Federation’s commitment to continuity and integrity, Comptroller General Bashir Adewale Adeniyi has been named Igali’s successor. A respected board member known for his humility and discipline, Adeniyi is expected to build on the foundation laid by Igali and elevate the sport to new heights.
Igali extended heartfelt thanks to key figures who shaped his journey, including Dr. Amos Adamu and Chief Patrick Ekeji, who recruited him as Technical Adviser and facilitated his return from Canada.
He also acknowledged the pivotal roles played by Chief Timipre Sylva, former Governor Seriake Dickson, and current Governor Douye Diri in supporting wrestling initiatives and his leadership bid.
Ministers Bolaji Abdullahi, Solomon Dalung, and Sunday Dare were praised for their partnership, while the Directors of FEAD and fellow Federation Presidents were commended for their professionalism and camaraderie.
Institutional support from the Bayelsa, Delta, and Rivers State Governments, the Nigeria Customs Service under CG Bashir Adeniyi, the National Sports Commission, the Nigeria Olympic Committee, and the Armed Forces of Nigeria under Gen. Chris Musa (rtd.) was also recognized as instrumental in sustaining the Federation’s vision.
Despite the impressive medal haul, Igali emphasized that the true legacy lies in the human spirit, the wrestlers who found purpose, the coaches who found pride, and the nation that rediscovered its strength through sport.
He acknowledged the imperfections of leadership and asked for forgiveness where he may have fallen short, reaffirming that his service was always rooted in love for wrestling and Nigeria.
Though stepping down as president, Igali remains committed to the sport as a member of the United World Wrestling (UWW) Bureau.
‘The mat is not merely where I was most tested; it is where I learned, where I grew, and where I found my life’s meaning,’ he said, quoting Chinua Achebe: ‘Beyond the war and the warrior, only the story remains.’
