Nigeria is set to make its first-ever appearance at the Commonwealth Kabaddi Championship, marking a major milestone for the contact sport in the country, according to Daily Trust.
The national team has been preparing ahead of the international competition. Kabaddi, a high-energy sport that originated in India, involves players crossing into an opponent's half to tag out defenders while chanting and avoiding capture before returning safely to their side.
Ahead of the tournament, the team received a major morale boost as Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu pledged his support for the athletes representing Nigeria. The backing comes as the squad works to ensure a competitive outing on the global stage.
The sport has steadily grown its footprint across Africa in recent years, with Nigerian sports administrators promoting it in schools and local sports festivals to attract young talent. Taking part in the Commonwealth Kabaddi Championship gives the country a platform to test its players against established powerhouses from across the Commonwealth nations.
The development represents a fresh direction for Nigeria's multi-sport ambitions outside traditional favorites such as football, athletics, and basketball. Supporters and officials will now look to see how the team performs in its inaugural campaign once the championship gets underway.
