On April 29th, 2025, strength and resilience electrified the Basketball Arena at the National Stadium in Surulere, Lagos, as the Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu Arm Wrestling Championship took center stage, captivating the audience with powerful displays of athleticism and perseverance.
Tagged “Let Your Strength Give You a Promising Career,” the event brought together Nigeria’s most determined athletes for an intense day of arm wrestling showdowns, showcasing not just physical prowess, but also the power of drive and resilience.
Organized by Showrage Arm Wrestling and supported by the Nigerian Arm Wrestling Federation (NAWF), the championship was powered by Image Expressions, setting the stage for a thrilling competition. The event was officially opened by Mr. Mikson Ajiboye of Showrage, laying the foundation for the electrifying atmosphere that followed.
In the female finale, Oyewusi Olubisi overpowered Ogungbure Blessing Adebimpe in a gripping contest to claim the top prize of ₦500,000, with Blessing earning ₦300,000 as the 1st runner-up.
Meanwhile, the male category brought the audience to their feet as Big Steve faced off against Blacksy in an intense showdown. After a fierce battle, Big Steve emerged victorious, clinching ₦1 million, while Blacksy secured ₦500,000 as the runner-up.
Otunba Bestman Nze-Jumbo, CEO of Image Expressions and President of Team Nigeria for Change, delivered a powerful message to the audience, emphasizing the broader significance of the championship: “This championship is not just about who has the strongest arm; it’s about who has the strongest drive. At Image Expressions, we believe in turning talent into opportunity. We’re proud to support a platform that turns strength into a stepping stone for greatness.”
Judges from the Nigerian Arm Wrestling Federation, including Mrs. Kate Osho, Mr. Salami Adebayo (Treasurer), Mr. Femi Akinsanya, and Mrs. Adamoh Becky, ensured fairness and professionalism throughout the high-stakes event.
In his remarks, Mr. Akapo O. Samson, Secretary General of NAWF, highlighted the growing future of the sport in Nigeria, noting that with the right support, young people could thrive through strength, discipline, and focus. “NAWF is committed to expanding this sport across all regions and making arm wrestling a national pride and professional career path,” he said.
The Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu Arm Wrestling Championship has solidified its position as more than just a sports event; it is a powerful platform for nurturing talent, unlocking careers, and inspiring youth. With the strong support of the Nigerian Arm Wrestling Federation and organizations like Image Expressions, the championship offers hope for a brighter future where strength can truly lead to success.
