The Nigeria Taekwondo Federation (NTF) has concluded plans to train officials ahead of the inaugural Michael Opeyemi Bamidele (MOB) National Taekwondo Championship, scheduled to hold in Lagos State.
The officials’ training is fixed for September 16, two days before the two-day championship, which will begin on September 18 at the Indoor Sports Hall of the National Stadium, Lagos.
NTF President, Tayo Popoola, said the training was necessary to ensure the championship was conducted in line with international standards.
Popoola stressed that the federation was committed to delivering a well-organised competition that would meet global standards and provide officials and athletes with the required platform to showcase their abilities.
“What we are doing is to ensure we stage the event with all aspects in conformity with best practices all over the world. It’s the usual practice and so we engage them on Wednesday ahead of the event starting on Friday,” Popoola said.
Former Lagos State Commissioner for Sports and ex-Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Opeyemi Bamidele, is the sponsor of the tournament, which the Nigeria Taekwondo Federation hopes will serve as part of its preparations for future international engagements.
Bamidele, a senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, believes sports can play a vital role in promoting national unity and empowering youths. He has supported several sporting events in the past as part of his commitment to sports development.
All 36 states of the federation, alongside the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), are expected to participate in the championship, with clubs from across the country also set to compete. Paramilitary organisations have equally indicated their interest in taking part in the event.
The NTF has kept registration open, allowing states and clubs that are yet to register to do so ahead of the championship.
“Because it is the first edition, registration is still ongoing. We are just excited that the responses have been very encouraging and we are optimistic of a very good championship in Lagos,” Popoola added.