Beach Wrestling Debuts In Yenagoa As Sport Gains Ground
Yenagoa Hosts Expanding Wrestling Showcase
YENAGOA has once again taken centre stage in Nigeria’s wrestling scene as it hosts the fourth edition of the Governor Douye Diri National Wrestling Classic, with the landmark introduction of beach wrestling.
The week-long championship, running from 25 March to 1st April, has drawn athletes from across the country, reinforcing Bayelsa’s status as a key hub for wrestling development.
Beach Wrestling Makes National Debut
This year’s defining feature is the inclusion of beach wrestling—a fast-growing global variant contested on sand. Its debut at a national championship marks a significant milestone for the sport in Nigeria.
The format delivered high-energy contests, with wrestlers adapting quickly to the unique demands of balance, speed, and agility required on sand.
Cross River Dominates Early Action
Team Cross River emerged as one of the standout performers in the new discipline.
Deborah Edet Ubana opened strongly with a victory over Rivers State’s Blessing Apeh in the women’s 60kg category, while Inah Johnson followed up with another impressive win.
The team’s dominance extended across categories, with Gabriel Ubana Edet clinching gold in the men’s 55kg division. Additional podium finishes came from Mbasekei Lawrence Ubi (bronze, 57kg) and Agoro Florence Sunday (bronze, women’s 49kg).
Officials Hail Strategic Development
Daniel Igali, President of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation, described the introduction of beach wrestling as a forward-looking move aligned with global trends.
He noted that the discipline has already featured at the Youth Olympic Games and is being considered for future Olympic inclusion.
Officials also highlighted the tournament’s role in talent discovery, with the new format offering athletes fresh opportunities to showcase their abilities on an international pathway.
A Growing Platform for Talent
As the championship progresses, stakeholders say the addition of beach wrestling signals not just innovation, but expansion—broadening the scope of wrestling in Nigeria and positioning the country for greater global competitiveness.
