Nigeria’s wrestling community has welcomed Adebiyi Anthony Olusegun’s elevation to United World Wrestling’s Level 2 refereeing standard after he completed the required course in Egypt.
Key takeaways
- The qualification was earned during the 2026 African Wrestling Championships in Alexandria.
- The Nigeria Wrestling Federation funded Adebiyi’s attendance as part of a wider officials-development programme.
- NWF president Dr. Bashir Adewale Adeniyi said stronger refereeing, coaching and technical expertise are essential to the sport’s long-term progress.
- Adebiyi plans to use his experience to improve officiating at home and guide younger referees nationwide.
Adeniyi praises refereeing milestone
Adeniyi congratulated Adebiyi after the Nigerian official completed the Level 2 United World Wrestling referees course, which was staged in conjunction with the 2026 African Wrestling Championships in Alexandria.
The federation covered Adebiyi’s participation in the Egyptian programme. The support formed part of an initiative led by Adeniyi to strengthen the skills of Nigeria’s technical personnel and give the country’s referees greater exposure to international wrestling.
Adeniyi said the development reflected the federation’s effort to create a lasting foundation for wrestling in Nigeria. He stressed that progress must involve more than competitors, pointing to the importance of capable referees, coaches and other technical staff in developing the sport.
He welcomed Adebiyi’s advancement and said the new qualification was a source of pride for the federation. Adeniyi urged him to maintain his commitment, pursue the highest standards and make the most of the opportunity. He also called on young referees across Nigeria to seek professional-development opportunities and prepare themselves to serve the country with distinction.
Adebiyi sets sights on domestic impact
Adebiyi thanked the NWF president for making his trip to Egypt possible, describing the sponsorship and the resulting qualification as a significant step in his career.
The newly certified referee said he would channel his enhanced training into raising domestic officiating standards. He also promised to support the next generation by mentoring younger officials throughout Nigeria.
