The Grappling Athletes Development Initiative (GADI Nigeria) heartily congratulates the International Grappling Federation (IGF) on the occasion of its 5th Anniversary and the World Grappling Gi/NoGi Championship scheduled to take place on Saturday, October 17, 2026, in Šiauliai, Lithuania.
This milestone represents an important achievement in the growth, development, and international promotion of grappling as a competitive sport. Over the years, the International Grappling Federation has continued to provide a platform for athletes, coaches, officials, and grappling organizations from different parts of the world to come together, showcase their talents, and contribute to the advancement of the sport.
As an organization committed to the development of grappling athletes in Nigeria, GADI Nigeria is proud to be associated with the African Grappling Federation (AGF), and the International Grappling Federation as its parent bodyand the global governing body that awards official hosting and development rights. This relationship reflects our shared commitment to promoting excellence, encouraging international cooperation, developing athletes, and creating opportunities for grapplers to compete on the global stage.
We recognize the importance of the IGF’s role in bringing nations together through grappling and providing athletes with opportunities to demonstrate discipline, skill, sportsmanship, and dedication. The World Grappling Gi/NoGi Championship is another significant opportunity to strengthen these values while celebrating the spirit of international sporting competition.
For Nigeria and Africa as a whole, our association with the IGF is an important step towards building a stronger grappling community, improving athletes’ standards, and expanding opportunities for African competitors to participate in international championships.
According to Olusesan Olukoya, the national coordinator of GADI Nigeria, GADI Nigeria remains committed to grassroots development, athlete education, training, and the promotion of grappling as a sport capable of empowering young people and contributing to national and international sporting development.
On this special occasion, we extend our warmest congratulations to the leadership, members, officials, coaches, athletes, and supporters of the International Grappling Federation. We wish all participants in the championship outstanding performances and a memorable sporting experience in Šiauliai, Lithuania.
As the IGF celebrates five years of progress, we look forward to continued growth, stronger international partnerships, and greater achievements for grappling worldwide.
Congratulations to the International Grappling Federation on its 5th Anniversary and the World Grappling Gi/NoGi Championship! May the years ahead bring greater success, unity, and global recognition to the sport of grappling.