The Vice President of the Taekwondo Federation of Nigeria, Ms. Tayo Popoola, has expressed great enthusiasm over the growing impact of Taekwondo at the recently concluded National Sports Festival (NSF).
Speaking on the sidelines of the event, she outlined how the festival is helping uncover new talent, unite communities, and project the sport onto the global stage.
Describing Taekwondo as both a combat sport and a discipline, Ms. Popoola underscored its importance in youth development.
“Our vision is for Taekwondo to be in every home. It brings discipline and gives people self-confidence,” she said.
According to her, the sport is helping young Nigerians find purpose and build resilience. She emphasized that the NSF has provided a platform to not only identify promising athletes but also promote social cohesion.
“We’ve discovered champions. We’ve seen that our youth can be engaged positively, and that this country can become a better place.”
The inclusive atmosphere of the festival stood out to Ms. Popoola, who praised its ability to bring together people from different backgrounds.
“People can come together no matter who you are—your religion, tribe, or background—and these are the values we want to showcase to the public.”
This year’s festival was particularly significant for Taekwondo, as it featured equipment that matches international standards.
“This is one of the best festivals for Taekwondo. We are now using the same equipment as other parts of the world, giving our athletes international-level exposure.”
A key highlight of the festival was the IJA initiative, where young talents were matched against experienced athletes, fostering learning and growth.
“Tired legs are stepping aside and new talents are emerging. The IJA initiative is helping us identify and nurture these future champions.”
Ms. Popoola believes that these athletes can be nurtured to compete in the Youth Olympics and eventually represent Nigeria at the Olympic Games.
She also called on the National Sports Commission (NSC) to build on the festival’s success, pointing to the capable leadership within the commission.
“The NSC has people who understand what it takes to bring athletes together and develop new talents,” she noted.
“With a Chairman and Director-General who understand the game, sports in Nigeria will reach levels that will make us all proud.”
Beyond her work in Taekwondo, Ms. Popoola is also the brain behind the Lagos Women Run, a unique fitness event that promotes health and inclusion.
“We are prepared. It’s a competition for women, but even men take part in the spirit of fitness.”
This year’s edition of the Lagos Women Run will be held on November 8, 2025, and preparations are already in full swing.
Ms. Popoola’s passion for sports development and youth empowerment remains clear. Through her efforts in Taekwondo and initiatives like the Lagos Women Run, she continues to drive a vision where sport becomes a unifying force and a springboard for excellence in Nigeria.
