The Nigeria Taekwondo Federation (NTF) has introduced a new team-based competition format. The format debuted at the maiden Michael Opeyemi Bamidele (MOB) National Taekwondo Club/Team Championship. The event held at the Indoor Sports Hall, National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos. It began on Friday and ended on Saturday.
Taekwondo in Nigeria has produced continental medalists but struggled for visibility. The sport receives limited funding and media coverage. Nigerian athletes won medals at the African Taekwondo Championship in May 2026, including in Poomsae and Para Taekwondo. The federation has focused on individual competitions. The team format is new. It mirrors formats used in other countries. It aims to build depth and consistency.
NTF President Temitayo Popoola said the format would improve athletes’ stamina, consistency, timing and competitiveness. “This is the first time this kind of competition is being organised in Nigeria,” she said. The championship featured Team Kyorugi (Tag-Match Sparring) and Team Poomsae events for senior and junior categories. Teams from states, clubs, universities and institutions participated.
In the junior male Kyorugi category, All Best Club Abuja emerged first. Lagos State finished second. Aimaan Association placed third. Osun State finished fourth. In the junior female Kyorugi category, Ondo State emerged first. N-Youth Club finished second. Lagos State placed third.
Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, the sponsor, promised continued support. He announced 29 July 2027 for the next edition. Lekan Fatodu, Director-General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, said sports could develop talents and create opportunities for young people.
Lagos finished second overall after mistakes toward the end. The state won two gold and two silver medals. Coach Bamidele Kazeem said the team would work on its weaknesses.
Winners: Athletes, who gain a new competition format. The NTF, which demonstrates innovation. Sponsor Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, who gains visibility. Lagos State, which hosted and competed well. Losers: Individual-only formats, which lose prominence. States without strong taekwondo programmes. Athletes who did not participate. The federation, if the format is not sustained.
Bottom Line: A new team format is a step forward. It builds depth and prepares athletes for international competition. The NTF has the sponsor. It needs to sustain the championship. One event is a start.