Dr. Okou Backs CG Adeniyi For Nigeria Wrestling Federation Presidency, Calls for Reforms in Refereeing

Dr. Okou Backs CG Adeniyi For Nigeria Wrestling Federation Presidency, Calls for Reforms in Refereeing

By Admin 

Newly elected Nigeria Wrestling Federation (NWF) board member, Dr. Femedein Timipre Okou, has publicly endorsed the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, PhD, for the presidency of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation. Dr. Okou urged stakeholders across the wrestling community to unite behind Adeniyi's candidacy for what he described as a "brighter future" for Nigerian wrestling.

Speaking with journalists in Abuja on Sunday, ahead of his departure to the United Arab Emirates for the World Military Sports Science Symposium, Dr. Okou emphasized the importance of visionary leadership in consolidating the NWF's recent gains.

 “My endorsement of CG Adeniyi is built on expertise, passion, and a deep understanding of wrestling's intricacies,” Okou stated. “His leadership will foster a culture of excellence, fairness, and development.”

Dr. Okou, an international wrestling referee and Associate Professor, will deliver a keynote lecture at the global symposium titled “Optimizing Physical Training Protocols in the Military: Balancing Readiness with Injury Prevention.” He is also set to serve as Chairperson at the CISM International Symposium 2025.

Push for Referee Development and Governance Reform

Beyond his endorsement, Dr. Okou used the platform to spotlight the urgent need for reform in the career development and governance framework for wrestling referees in Nigeria. He warned that without structured and merit-based referee pathways, the sport's credibility and long-term development would remain at risk.

 “Referees should be formally embedded in governance frameworks. This is not a luxury—it is foundational,” he said. “Without trained, trusted, and professionally supported referees, the credibility of match outcomes, athlete confidence, and the overall integrity of the sport remain at risk.”

Dr. Okou criticized the current loosely coordinated system in which Nigerian referees rise through domestic competitions without a clear, standardized national development plan. While he acknowledged the impact of military-sponsored training and ad-hoc scholarships, he called for a systemic and inclusive strategy to ensure Nigerian officials gained both domestic influence and international recognition.

“More than ever, the future of Nigerian sports depends on inclusive governance that values every stakeholder—not just those at the top,” he added.

Dr. Okou’s remarks come at a critical time for Nigerian wrestling, as the federation prepares for leadership transitions and strategic planning aimed at boosting its local and international profile.