By James Ogunnaike, Abeokuta

President of the Nigeria Taekwondo Federation, Grand Master Tayo Popoola, has described the just-concluded 2026 National Open Trials as a resounding success, saying the competition uncovered fresh talents and provided a solid platform for Nigeria’s preparations ahead of major international championships.

Speaking at the end of the three-day event held at the multi-purpose hall of the Alake Sports Centre, Popoola expressed satisfaction with the standard displayed by athletes during the competition.

According to her, the federation remains committed to building a formidable national team capable of securing podium finishes at future international events, including the African Games and the 2028 Summer Olympics.

She explained that the trials were deliberately designed to identify and nurture emerging talents who could develop into world-class athletes within the next two to three years.

“The display of talents here at this National Open Trials has wowed me and I am elated to say that our future is bright, looking at the fact that the athletes here are the bedrock that will form our national team to represent us at various international championships,” she said.

Popoola also referenced earlier remarks made by Grand Master Kim Lee on Nigeria’s growing potential in global Taekwondo competitions, insisting that the federation was making steady progress, especially with the backing of the National Sports Commission.

She further highlighted the importance of the Kukkiwon Dan Grading programme, noting that certification remains a major requirement for athletes aiming to compete internationally.

“It’s on the right track because we have the Grand Master here and in Taekwondo, if you remember, we did the grading of our Kukkiwon Dan Grading and in Taekwondo as a sport, the first thing for anyone to participate around the world is to have your certificate, which is the Kukkiwon, and we have done that here,” she added.

The federation president commended the Director General of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, for personally attending the event and encouraging athletes and stakeholders.

“The Director General of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, was here in person and he was full of joy for the amazing work we have put in here. The National Sports Commission has encouraged us, supported us, and given its appraisal that we are on the right channel. More of this will take us to podium finishes at international events,” she stated.

Popoola also disclosed that all logistics and preparations had been concluded for Nigeria’s participation in the forthcoming African Taekwondo Championships scheduled to hold in Bamako from May 29 to June 2, 2026.

“Bamako is next. We are going to Mali, and the Federal Government has done its part. Everything is in place that will take us there. We will be taking athletes selected from these trials, including our Para athletes. We will compete in Poomsae, which is one of our major strengths, and Kyorugi, which is the fighting event,” she said.

“This is our first time going with a large number of athletes, and we are grateful to the National Sports Commission, which shows that we are on the right track.”

More than 300 athletes participated in the National Open Trials held in Abeokuta, further underlining the growing popularity and development of Taekwondo across the country.