George Gould, the president Liberia Wrestling Federation (LWF) on Saturday arrived in Nigeria for the Gov. Wike National Wrestling Championships in Port Harcourt.

Wrestlers size each other during a bout.

The completion holds from Nov. 23 to Nov. 30 at the Diete Spiff Civic Centre, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

Gould on his arrival told newsmen that’s he’s excited to be in Nigeria and overwhelmed by the welcome.

He said that Nigeria has presented itself squarely and clearly as the leader of Africa and the black race.

“I am very proud of this position, I’m impressed with the hospitality and this has rekindled my hope, respect for Nigeria people.

“I will now refer to this country as the `Great Nigeria`.

“I want the people of Nigeria to keep up the spirit of competition, hard work and leadership, ” he said.

Gould said his mission in Nigeria is to strengthen the relationship,partnership and collaboration between both countries.

He added that most especially in the areas of sports and most importantly wrestling.

“Have been to Nigeria some years back on a similar mission but not at the national level. This is my first on the national level.

“I have seen Nigeria compete in wrestling at numerous competitions and they are dominating and highly competitive, ” he said.

He added that Nigeria’s wrestling is an inspiration to them in Liberia.

“We are looking at benefitting from Nigeria’s experience and to tap into Nigeria’s resources to strengthen Liberia’s wrestling.

On the African Wrestling Championships to be hosted by Nigeria in 2018, Gould, however assured to Liberia’s participation.

“We would definitely be in Nigeria for the championships, even if we won’t attend any other wrestling competition.

“We are hoping to rob Nigeria of one of the medals, Nigeria should be mindful of Liberia. We intend to use Nigeria make a story.

“We are doing all we can to ensure we are at the competition, we have made our registration for participation.

“We might not be as prepared as we ought to be but we are more prepared than we used to be.

“We are more organised and have a competent coach who’s doing so well with the wrestlers, ” he said.

NAN