Veteran Wrestlers Association of Nigeria (VWAN) have made a passionate appeal to Sports Development Minister, Senator John Enoh to facilitate the emergence of former World, Africa and Nigeria Wrestling champion, Morris Atula as next president of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation (NWF).
In a press statement signed by Austin Atasie also a former African, Commonwealth, and World Champion, the veterans said the London based Morris Atula has the pedigree to revive Nigeria Wrestling.
The statement further acknowledged Atula’s total commitment and support for Nigeria wrestling, hence the minister should okay there request for been the president of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation.
On behalf of the Veterans, Austin Atasie, who was a former Director of Sports in Imo State, said Morris Atula has been at the forefront of grassroots wrestling development besides being a renowne team player and sponsor.
“Our appeal goes to the Sports Development Minister, Senator John Enoh, the Sport Ministry and other shareholders to ensure that Morris Atula becomes president of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation in the next dispensation.
“Atula is a man who can surely revive Nigerian Wrestling. He has the interest of past and represent wrestlers in mind and ensures that the right persons are in the right position .He has a clear vision that would produce good results with a very sound technical director that will ensure he would engage”.
Speaking further on behalf of the veterans, Atasie said, “We trust that leadership of Morris Atula would revive wrestling which has been moribund for over 12 years now. Grassroot talents, including other good wrestlers who wereunveiled at the national youth games in Asaba, Delta State recently would be properly encouraged and groomed to stardom.
“We also have the firm belief that the president (Atula) would ensure regular and rotational hosting of wrestling competitions in the six geopolitical zones of the country.”
Atasie further said on behalf of Veteran Wrestlers Association whose members have long been in isolation would bridge the falling standard of Nigeria wrestling.
The veteran who were also emphatic that beside regular training programmes and competitions in the various zones , a Morris Atula led – board would revive Greco Roman wrestling apart from regular provision of wrestling mats and other facilities. As far as they are concerned, there could be more representation by genuine stakeholders on the next board of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation.
