By Georgina Adegbie

Silas Agara, President, Karate Federation of Nigeria (KFN), said on Monday that the just concluded African Karate Championship in Abuja was the best for Team Nigeria.

Agara, who was assessing the country’s performance at the championship, said that Team Nigeria’s highest medal haul in a continental championship was previously one gold, one silver, and one bronze.

“Our athletes have gotten to a stage where they can showcase their talents and have a good record in the championship,” he said.

According to Agara, Nigeria has the facilities and capacity to host international events.

“Egypt participated with 10 world-best athletes and Nigeria competed with them in the finals.

“Karate has come to stay in Nigeria, and we need to groom our cadets and juniors so that they can replace the aging athletes,” he said.

Agara expressed gratitude to the Federal Government and the National Sports Commission (NSC) for their support in hosting a successful championship.

He said that Nigeria was ready to host another championship if given the opportunity.

“I’m happy that this championship has received high praise from the President of the World Karate Federation and the President of the Union of African Karate Federation and his executive board.

“We can host more continental championships; we have the facilities and the capacity to host world championships.

“The championship has showcased the talents of athletes from across Africa, with Nigeria’s athletes impressively competing with the world’s best,” he said

A total of 31 countries participated in the championship, which started on July 21 and ended on Sunday. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Emmanuel Afonne