The President of the Nigeria Taekwondo Federation, Grand Master George Ashiru, has revealed that the 2016 edition of the annual Korean Ambassador’s Taekwondo championship will be used to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the federation in Nigeria.
The event, taking place at the Molade Okoya Thomas Hall of the Teslim Balogun Stadium in Surulere, Lagos, and sponsored by the Korean Cultural centre “with their other chosen partners”, is geared towards enhancing sports development and bilateral relations.
It will have eminent Nigerians, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo; the Minister of Youth and Sports, Barrister Solomon Dalung; a former Chief of Army staff, Lieutenant General Inuwa Wushishi (rtd), amongst others bagging awards for their immense contributions to the federation.
In his words, Ashiru said: “It is noteworthy that this is the 30th year of establishing the Taekwondo federation in Nigeria. It was formed in 1986 and inaugurated in 1987.
“We are giving out awards in recognition of the people who have in one way or the other supported the Nigerian Taekwondo Federation tactically, politically and materially.”
Explaining why these Nigerians will be honoured during the competition holding between December 8 and 10, Ashiru said they have contributed in no small way to uplift the sport in Nigeria.
He said: “Former President Olusegun Obasanjo incepted the training of taekwondo in the National Library. He personally supports, visits and enrolled his grand children. Considering his support for various areas of sports in Nigeria, I think the federation will like to appreciate him.”
On the choice of Dalung as one of the notable recipients, the former national champion told journalists that the Minister of Sports for the second time in a row will be physically present at the event and deserves special recognition.
Football Obasanjo, Dalung to bag Taekwondo award
