By ABDULRAHMAN YAHAYA

The Nigerian Wrestling team have departed Nigeria for Astana ahead of the World Wrestling Championships in Astana Kazakhstan.

The contingent departed the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on Friday ahead of the global competition scheduled to run until Nov. 1.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the team comprises 11 wrestlers, including eight female and three male athletes, who will compete against some of the world’s best wrestlers for honours at the championship.

Bidding farewell to the team before their departure, President of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation, Bashir Adeniyi charged the wrestlers to represent Nigeria with pride and strive for victory in the championships.

“We must represent Nigeria with pride and strive for victory on the global stage. Having dominated the African continent, the time has come for us to translate that success into outstanding performances at the world level,” Adeniyi said.

“The federation has high expectations for this team, and we believe the athletes have what it takes to make Nigeria proud and restore the country’s medal-winning fortunes at the World Wrestling Championships.” He added.

The female wrestlers include Genesis Mercy Miesinnei, Ogunsanya Christianah Tolulope, Idris Adijat Avorshai, Adekoye Jumoke Bukola, Asaolu Esther Olamide, Kolawole Esther, Adekuoroye Mercy, and Ojo Damola Hannah.

The three male wrestlers are Akintewe Stephen Tope, Andrew Ebierelayefa Allison and Onovwiomoghwo Harrison.

The Nigerian team is led by the coaching crew of Akuh Purity, Blessing Oborududu, Agberekeme Areh and Kadel Jacob Lee. (NAN)