The President of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation (NWF), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, has congratulated Nigerian wrestler Mapsin Elias Mika after he secured the country’s first-ever medal at the Veterans World Wrestling Championships in Amman, Jordan.
Mika, a former national champion, made history by winning bronze in the men’s 70kg Greco-Roman category, giving Nigeria its first podium finish at the global veterans competition.
The 2026 championships, organised by United World Wrestling, are taking place from October 6 to 11, featuring Greco-Roman and freestyle wrestling for athletes aged 35 and above.
In a congratulatory message issued on behalf of the federation’s board, Adeniyi described the achievement as a source of pride for Nigeria and the country’s wrestling community.
He praised Mika for his determination and dedication, noting that the medal had secured Nigeria a place in the record books of world veterans wrestling.
Adeniyi also commended veteran coach Babatunde James, popularly known as Tunde King, for his guidance and support throughout Mika’s campaign.
According to the NWF president, the achievement demonstrates that former athletes can continue contributing to sports development long after retiring from active competition.
He added that experienced wrestlers could play an important role in mentoring younger athletes, sharing technical knowledge and helping to develop future champions.
Adeniyi further disclosed that the federation had incorporated veterans wrestling into its strategic development plans to recognise former athletes’ contributions and keep them actively involved in the sport.
He assured Nigeria’s wrestling veterans and legends that the federation would continue supporting initiatives aimed at improving their welfare, encouraging participation and recognising their service to the country.
Mika’s bronze medal marks a significant milestone for Nigerian wrestling and highlights the continued potential of the country’s experienced athletes to achieve success on the international stage.
