Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Shehu Dikko, has pledged to promote and support the growth of Wushu, a traditional Chinese martial art, across Nigeria.
Speaking at the finals of the Chinese Ambassador’s Cup Wushu Championship in Abuja, Dikko commended the Chinese Embassy for its continuous support in fostering the sport. He described Wushu as a discipline with immense potential to inspire and empower Nigerian youth.
“Wushu is gaining ground in Nigeria, and with continued support, it will create another path for our youths to achieve their dreams. Now that it’s reaching the Olympic level, we will take it even more seriously,” Dikko said.
Wushu, which combines elements of athletics, acrobatics, and combat, is globally recognized and practiced in diverse forms such as Shaolin Kung Fu, Tai Chi, and Wudangquan. It features prominently in major international competitions, including the World Wushu Championships and the Asian Games.
In his remarks, the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, highlighted the sport’s role as a platform for cultural exchange and mutual understanding between China and Nigeria.
“Wushu is a precious treasure of Chinese culture. It not only builds our bodies but also shapes our character and spirit. It embodies values of self-discipline, self-improvement, and respect for others — principles that resonate deeply with Nigerian culture,” the ambassador stated.
Yu noted that Wushu has continued to flourish in Nigeria, attracting enthusiasts from both urban and rural communities. He linked its growing popularity to the broader China–Africa cooperation and the Global Civilisation Initiative, adding that both President Xi Jinping and President Bola Tinubu recently reaffirmed commitments to strengthen cultural and sports exchanges.
He also announced that Wushu would be featured at the 2026 Dakar Youth Olympic Games, describing it as a major milestone for African martial artists.
“This is a significant moment for every Wushu enthusiast. It opens up new opportunities for the sport’s growth across Africa,” Yu said, urging Nigerian athletes to embrace Wushu as more than a sport — but a bridge between both nations.
The Chinese Embassy, he added, would continue partnering with the NSC and local Wushu communities to build more platforms for exchange and development.
The championship concluded with standout performances: Justice Unanka clinched gold in the Taolu Single category, Naima Sanusi emerged champion in Tai Chi, Goodluck Emmanuel won the 75kg Male Sanda, and Winnifred Agara triumphed in the 60kg Female Sanda event.
