Senegal were crowned the champions of the 13th ECOWAS African Wrestling Tournament (TOLAC 2025) held at the Velodrome, MKO Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, Nigeria, from March 6–8, 2025.
Nigeria came in second, with Benin and Guinea taking third and fourth positions, in that order.
Ebipatei Lienbofa (Nigeria) and Ebi Bigos (Nigeria) secured victory in the 66kg and 76kg women’s weight classes, respectively, while Siny Sembene (Senegal), Gora Niang (Senegal), and Ngagne Sene (Senegal) triumphed in the 86kg, 100kg, and 120kg men’s divisions.
A defining moment of TOLAC 2025 was the inclusion of female wrestlers in the competition for the first time, with its conclusion during International Women’s Day also underscoring ECOWAS’ commitment to gender equality and the empowerment of women in sports.
During the closing ceremony, ECOWAS Commission president Omar Alieu Touray reiterated the organisation’s commitment to supporting traditional sports as a tool for regional integration and social development.
“This initiative aligns with ECOWAS’ broader vision of ensuring equal opportunities in sports and beyond,” Dr Touray said.
“The tournament’s conclusion on International Women’s Day reinforced the significance of this initiative, demonstrating that tradition and inclusivity can thrive together under ECOWAS’ leadership.”
As ECOWAS celebrates its golden jubilee, the success of TOLAC 2025 stands as a testament to the organisation’s enduring vision for a united, prosperous, and inclusive West Africa.
Dr Touray added: “This tournament sets a benchmark for future editions, ensuring that sports remain at the heart of ECOWAS’ integration agenda. With a renewed commitment to the advancement of African wrestling, ECOWAS will continue to champion regional solidarity, promote cultural heritage, and inspire generations to come.”
The tournament also provided an opportunity for athletes, officials, and stakeholders to engage in discussions on the role of sports in economic development, youth empowerment, and cultural diplomacy.
Nigeria’s National Sports Commission director general, Bukola Olopade, emphasised the economic potential of traditional wrestling and called for greater investment from governments and the private sector to ensure that athletes and sports professionals can build sustainable careers while preserving Africa’s rich sporting heritage.
Beyond competition, TOLAC 2025 served as a powerful diplomatic platform, fostering dialogue, regional cooperation, and peacebuilding.
