By Aderonke Ojo
The atmosphere at the ongoing Nigeria Taekwondo Federation National Open Trials turned emotional on Friday as two veteran Nigerian Taekwondo practitioners, Grand Master Sunday Koffi Akani and Grand Master Dominic Asuquo Bassey, were honoured by the World Taekwondo Jidokwan Federation in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The duo received official recognition and decoration for attaining the prestigious 7th Dan rank during a ceremony held inside the Multi-Purpose Hall of the Alake Sports Centre, Ijeja, shortly after the Kukkiwon Dan Grading Test.
Presenting the certificates, the World Taekwondo Federation representative and President of the World Taekwondo Masters Union, Grand Master Kim Lee, praised the honourees for their immense contributions to the growth of Taekwondo in Nigeria.
“On behalf of the World Taekwondo Jidokwan family, we are honoured to decorate you today for the efforts you have put into the growth of Taekwondo from its early days until now,” Kim Lee said.
“You both have laboured tirelessly, and this honour is a symbol that your hard work and sacrifices have not been in vain.”
An emotional Grand Master Akani, while reacting to the recognition, thanked God for being alive to witness the honour after more than five decades of dedication to the sport.
“You may not understand the reason behind my tears. It is because this honour is coming while I am still alive to receive it with my own hands after 54 years of hard work,” he said.
Akani also acknowledged the support of the President of the Nigeria Taekwondo Federation, Grand Master Tayo Popoola, while noting that he still actively trains at Ikoyi Club in Lagos.
He further advised younger athletes and practitioners to remain disciplined and committed to the development of the sport instead of focusing solely on financial rewards.
“I want to make it clear to the younger generation that money should not be their major target. They should work hard and help grow the sport because that dedication is what will eventually take them to the top,” he added.
The recognition ceremony was one of the major highlights of the Nigeria Taekwondo Federation National Open Trials, which continues to showcase some of the country’s finest Taekwondo talents.
