13th ECOWAS African Wrestling Tournament Opens in Abuja, Marking a New Era for Gender Inclusion

The 13th ECOWAS African Wrestling Tournament (TOLAC) officially kicked off today, March 6, 2025, at the Velodrome, MKO Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, Nigeria. The prestigious event has gathered top wrestlers from 11 ECOWAS Member States, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of traditional wrestling while promoting unity and sports diplomacy.

This year’s edition is particularly groundbreaking as it marks the first-ever inclusion of female wrestlers, reinforcing ECOWAS’ commitment to gender equality in sports. Organized by the ECOWAS Youth and Sports Development Centre (EYSDC) in collaboration with Nigeria’s National Sports Commission (NSC), the tournament plays a crucial role in the ECOWAS 50th Anniversary Celebrations by emphasizing the power of culture, youth engagement, and sports as a tool for regional integration.

ECOWAS and Nigeria Celebrate a Milestone in Traditional Wrestling

At the opening ceremony, Mallam Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, applauded ECOWAS for harnessing sports to drive regional integration. Expressing Nigeria’s pride in hosting TOLAC for the first time, he highlighted its impact on youth development and economic empowerment.

“Traditional wrestling is more than a sport; it is a symbol of our shared heritage. This tournament not only strengthens our unity but also provides a platform for athletes to showcase their skills, grow, and gain international recognition.”

Speaking on behalf of ECOWAS Commissioner for Human Development and Social Affairs, Prof. Fatou Sow Sarr, Ambassador Francis Chuks Njoaguani, Director of ECOWAS Youth and Sports Development Centre, emphasized the tournament’s transformative role in breaking gender barriers.

“For the first time in history, female wrestlers are competing in this prestigious tournament, setting a new standard for gender inclusivity in traditional sports. ECOWAS is proud to champion this historic milestone.”

He further stressed that sports diplomacy remains a vital strategy for ECOWAS, positioning traditional wrestling as a cultural treasure that must be preserved and elevated.

“Sports are powerful drivers of peace, economic empowerment, and regional cooperation. By investing in traditional wrestling, we are investing in our youth, their future, and the continued unity of West Africa.”

A Thrilling Competition with Cultural Festivities

The tournament’s three-day competition began with an exciting opening parade, where athletes from 11 ECOWAS nations marched proudly, waving their national flags in a display of unity and sportsmanship. The lighting of the tournament torch symbolized the spirit of competition and camaraderie.

Spectators were also treated to traditional wrestling demonstrations, where competitors showcased techniques unique to their countries. Cultural performances featuring Nigerian and West African music and dance added to the vibrancy of the event, reinforcing ECOWAS’ commitment to promoting African heritage.

Competitive Matchups and Cash Prizes for Athletes

Immediately following the opening ceremony, the first round of matches kicked off, with wrestlers competing across various weight categories in a round-robin team elimination format. The finals are scheduled for March 8, 2025.

To enhance motivation and raise the tournament’s profile, ECOWAS has introduced significant cash prizes:

• Winning team: $10,000
• Second-place team: $6,000
• Third-place team: $3,000
• Gold medalists: $2,500
• Silver medalists: $1,500
• Bronze medalists: $1,000

TOLAC’s Broader Impact on Development and Inclusion

Beyond competition, TOLAC 2025 aligns with ECOWAS’ larger vision for development, inclusion, and peacebuilding. The tournament is not just about crowning champions—it is about:

Promoting traditional African sports on a global stage
Creating career opportunities for athletes and sports professionals
Strengthening diplomatic ties among ECOWAS Member States
Encouraging economic investment in traditional wrestling

Ambassador Francis Chuks Njoaguani reiterated the role of sports in driving economic growth, urging both governments and private investors to back traditional sports.

“ECOWAS Vision 2050 is about building a region where culture, sports, and economic development go hand in hand. Traditional wrestling is not just a pastime—it’s a career, a means of livelihood, and a bridge to international opportunities.”

Global Media Coverage and the Future of African Wrestling

ECOWAS has also called on media professionals across West Africa to amplify the tournament’s visibility, ensuring that the world recognizes the resilience and talent of African wrestlers. The organization is committed to securing global recognition and institutional support for traditional wrestling, making it a sustainable sport with long-term opportunities.

Looking Ahead: A Legacy in the Making

With the tournament now in full swing, fans can expect intense matchups, cultural festivities, and unforgettable moments over the next three days. The 13th ECOWAS African Wrestling Tournament stands as a landmark achievement in blending tradition with progress, proving that regional integration is not just an idea but a lived reality.

With strong participation from 11 nations, a groundbreaking milestone in gender inclusion, and a renewed focus on cultural preservation, TOLAC 2025 is set to leave a lasting legacy on the future of African sports.