NSC backing powers Alegu's World Junior Taekwondo Championship bid
President of the Nigeria Taekwondo Federation, Tayo Popoola, has praised the leadership of the National Sports Commission (NSC) for its crucial support in enabling Nigeria’s rising star, Solomon Alegu, to compete at the World Junior Taekwondo Championship in Tashkent.
Speaking through the federation’s media team, Popoola commended the Commission’s proactive and resourceful leadership, noting that its efforts are driving a renewed momentum in Nigerian sports.
“There is a new drive in our sports, and it is a result of intelligent and proactive leadership that has taken Nigerian sports to the next level,” she said.
She explained that Alegu’s path to the global stage was made possible through an NSC initiative that previously facilitated his participation at the Youth Games in Luanda in December last year.
“It was through the National Sports Commission programme that took Solomon to the Youth Games in Angola, and today he has the opportunity to compete at the World Junior Championship,” she added.
Popoola also revealed that the federation received strong encouragement and backing from the Commission as Alegu and his coach prepared for the tournament.
“We reached out to them as our athlete and coach prepared for this World Junior Taekwondo Championship, and we got their support. This serves as great inspiration to us as a federation,” she stated.
Highlighting Alegu’s credentials, Popoola recalled his bronze medal performance at the African Junior Championships in Luanda, where he competed in the -59kg category.
“We believe in his capacity, which is why he was selected to compete and showcase the never-say-die spirit of Nigeria,” she said.
She acknowledged that Nigeria has not featured at this level in recent times but expressed confidence in the young athlete’s readiness to deliver.
“It’s been a long time since we participated at this level, but I can assure you that Solomon will make a strong impact from his very first fight,” she added.
Alegu begins his quest for a podium finish on Wednesday, facing Yeun Awenm of the Netherlands in the -59kg category. The championship is scheduled to run through Friday, April 17, 2026.
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