Four prominent Nigerian wrestlers have been denied visas despite meeting all accreditation and travel prerequisites for the 2025 World Wrestling Championships in Zagreb, Croatia.
This decision by Croatian officials has sparked concerns regarding fairness, inclusivity, and the integrity of international sports. The wrestlers affected are Genesis Miessinne Mercy, Ogunsanya Tolulope Christianah, Ojo Damola Hannah, and Izolo Stephen Simon.
All four athletes are highly skilled, holding numerous African titles and, in some instances, Olympic experience. Their absence would significantly impact Nigeria’s prospects at the Championships, which are set to take place from September 13 to 21, 2025.
Croatian authorities denied the visas, citing “doubts” about the wrestlers’ intentions to return to Nigeria. However, the Nigeria Wrestling Federation (NWF) has condemned this reasoning as unfair and unfounded.
Igali emphasized that the athletes are officially accredited by United World Wrestling (UWW) and are valid representatives of Nigeria.
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In response to this setback, NWF President, Hon. Baraladei Daniel Igali, has reached out directly to the UWW President, requesting immediate intervention to address the issue.
Igali’s correspondence cautioned that such discriminatory visa practices threaten to undermine the principles of universality and merit-based participation that underpin global sports.
With Nigeria’s team set to depart this weekend, time is of the essence for a resolution. The UWW President has been called upon to engage promptly with Croatian authorities to secure the visas and ensure the athletes retain their rightful place on the international stage.
