The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has concluded the 13th ECOWAS African Wrestling Tournament, known as TOLAC 2025, in Abuja. This event was part of ECOWAS' 50th Anniversary Celebrations and aimed to promote regional unity, cultural heritage, and gender inclusion.
Mallam Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, represented Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the closing ceremony. He praised Senegal for winning the tournament, with Nigeria and Benin taking second and third places respectively. Dikko emphasized that traditional wrestling is a significant part of African heritage. "Over the past days, we have witnessed not just fierce but healthy competition. More importantly, we have seen a true demonstration of skill, strength, and the rich cultural heritage that binds us as a region," he stated.
A notable aspect of this year's tournament was the participation of female wrestlers for the first time. This move highlighted ECOWAS' commitment to gender equality in sports. The tournament's conclusion on International Women's Day further emphasized this achievement.
Ambassador Francis Chuks Njoaguani delivered a closing address on behalf of H.E. Prof. Fatou Sow Sarr, underscoring wrestling as a unifying force in promoting regional cooperation and cultural exchange within ECOWAS. "Over the past days, we have witnessed not just fierce but healthy competition," he reiterated.
Senegal's athletes excelled in several categories: Siny Sembene won in the 86KG category; Gora Niang in the 100KG; and Ngagne Sene in the 120KG category. In women's events, Nigeria's Ebipatei Lienbofa and Ebi Bigos won their respective weight classes.
Beyond athletic competition, TOLAC 2025 served as a platform for discussions on sports' role in economic development and youth empowerment. H.E. Bukola Olopade called for more investment to support sustainable careers for athletes while preserving Africa’s sporting traditions.
H.E. Dr. Omar Alieu Touray reaffirmed ECOWAS' commitment to using traditional sports as tools for regional integration and social development as part of its golden jubilee celebrations.
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