The Kwara State Karate Team has brought pride to the state, clinching silver and bronze medals at the prestigious 4th Japanese Ambassador Karate Tournament, held at the National Stadium, Abuja —a testament to the continuous support of the State Government and the Kwara State Sports Commission.
Receiving the victorious team in Ilorin, the Executive Chairman of the Kwara State Sports Commission, Mallam Bolakale Adisa Mogaji, commended the athletes for their brilliant performance, describing them as true ambassadors of Kwara State.
Mallam Mogaji attributed the team’s success to the unwavering backing of His Excellency, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, whose commitment to sports development continues to elevate Kwara’s profile in national and international sporting circles. “The Governor has made it clear that sports is a key tool for youth empowerment and state development. This success by our Karate team reflects what is possible with the right support,” he stated.
Encouraging the Karate players to remain dedicated and disciplined, the Chairman advised them to always guard their strength, stamina, and endurance — critical factors that shape performance in major tournaments. He further charged them to maintain their loyalty to the state, warning that any athlete found switching allegiance to other states would lose access to Kwara’s world-class sports facilities.
Mallam Mogaji assured the team of continued government sponsorship and support, as part of efforts to further boost their chances in future competitions.
Earlier, the Lead Coach of the team, Coach Akeem Owolabi, thanked the Kwara State Government and Sports Commission for their sponsorship and moral support, which enabled the team’s participation in Abuja. He highlighted the categories featured by the Kwara athletes and praised their commitment despite stiff competition from across the country.
Also speaking, Secretary of the Karate Association, Mr. Aliyu Abubakar, reported that the Kwara contingent returned with silver and bronze medals, adding that the athletes’ success would inspire other martial artists in the state.
The triumphant athletes were also warmly received by board members of the Sports Commission, Alhaji Dele Abubakar (MON) and Mallam Yunusa Abdullahi Lade, alongside the Commission Secretary, Mr. Aruna Tsado, who all congratulated the team on their commendable performance.
The resounding success of the Kwara Karate team in Abuja is another milestone under the visionary leadership of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq — proving that with the right government investment, Kwara sports can consistently compete and excel on the national stage
