Chairman of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Kung-fu Association, Mustapha Mubdiyu Adebayo, has articulated an ambitious vision aimed at enhancing the visibility and development of Kung-fu in the FCT and across Nigeria.
Speaking to journalists in Abuja at the weekend, Adebayo stressed the importance of raising awareness about the sport, which remains largely unfamiliar to many Nigerians. He voiced concerns that numerous individuals are either unaware of Kung-fu or have never witnessed it being practised.
To address this challenge, Adebayo is focusing on boosting visibility through outreach and engaging the private sector. “We lack even the most basic training equipment, and the limited training space we have is shared with other sports,” he explained. “Our goal is to involve more players from the private sector to help develop the sport, which possesses immense potential.”
Reflecting on the recent Sports Festival, Adebayo noted that only four athletes represented the FCT, with two returning home with medals. “This highlights the untapped potential of our athletes. If we had sent more competitors, we could have secured additional accolades,” he remarked, underscoring the importance of expanding participation.
In a bid to cultivate interest in Kung-fu among younger generations, Adebayo plans to target school sports. “By introducing Kung-fu into schools, we can engage young people early on. The more individuals we involve, the easier it will be to create visibility for the sport,” he said. He also recognised the growing concerns related to safety and self-defence in contemporary society, acknowledging that many parents are eager for their children to acquire martial arts skills.
Adebayo has initiated discussions with the chairman of school sports in the FCT to organise a Kung-fu competition for schools in the first quarter of next year. “Once the National Youth Games in Asaba concludes, we aim to plan this event, secure equipment, and attract sponsors to support the tournament,” he revealed.
Understanding the dynamics of private investment in sports, Adebayo is keen to approach potential sponsors strategically. “Businesspeople seek a return on their investment, so it is essential to align our sport with their brands,” he emphasised, highlighting the need for mutually beneficial partnerships.
Adebayo’s long-term vision includes establishing Nigeria as a competitive force in Kung-fu on the global stage, potentially even at the Olympic level. “We need a vibrant supply of training equipment, and with that, I believe we can produce athletes who will make Nigeria proud internationally,” he concluded.
With immediate plans to increase visibility and long-term objectives to bring home medals, Adebayo’s leadership could herald a new era for Kung-fu in Nigeria, inspiring a generation of martial artists and fostering a greater appreciation for the sport.
