Taekwondo: Popoola Hails NSC Support As National Open Trials Unearth New Talents

President of the Nigeria Taekwondo Federation (NTF), Tayo Popoola, has praised the standard of competition at the 2026 National Open Trials in Abeokuta, describing the event as a major step towards building a stronger national team for future international championships.

The three-day trials, held at the multi-purpose hall of the Alake Sports Centre in Ijeja, Ogun State, attracted more than 300 athletes from across the country and concluded on Saturday with impressive performances in both Poomsae and Kyorugi events.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, Popoola said the competition had revealed a new generation of talented athletes capable of representing Nigeria on the global stage.

“The display of talent at this National Open Trials has been outstanding and it gives us confidence that the future of Nigerian Taekwondo is bright,” she said.

According to the NTF president, the federation is deliberately focusing on identifying and nurturing young athletes who can mature into world-class competitors over the next few years.

She explained that the long-term objective is to build a formidable national team capable of competing for medals at major international competitions, including the African Games and the 2028 Olympic Games.

Popoola, the first female black belter in Kukkiwon Dan Grading in Nigeria, also highlighted the significance of the recent Kukkiwon Dan certification exercise, noting that it would enable more Nigerian athletes to compete internationally.

“In Taekwondo, athletes must possess recognised Kukkiwon certification to participate globally and we have successfully completed that process here in Nigeria,” she stated.

The NTF boss further commended the National Sports Commission (NSC) for its continued support towards the development of the sport.

She specifically praised the Director-General of the NSC, Bukola Olopade, for attending the trials and encouraging athletes and officials.

According to her, the backing of the commission has boosted the federation’s drive towards international success.

Popoola also confirmed that Nigeria had completed preparations for the forthcoming African Taekwondo Championships scheduled for May 29 to June 2 in Bamako, Mali.

She revealed that athletes selected from the trials, including Para athletes, would represent the country in both Poomsae and Kyorugi categories.

“This is the first time we are travelling with such a large contingent and it shows that Nigerian Taekwondo is moving in the right direction,” she added.