Silas Agara Elected UFAK Vice President, Boosts Nigeria’s Continental Influence

President of the Karate Federation of Nigeria (KFN), Hon. Silas Agara, has been elected as the Fourth Vice President of the Union of African Karate Federation (UFAK), marking a significant milestone for Nigeria in continental sports administration. Agara’s election into the UFAK executive committee comes at a time when Nigeria is asserting a stronger presence in African sports governance. As Vice President, he will play a key role in shaping policies, competitions, and developmental strategies for karate across the continent under the UFAK structure, which is affiliated with the World Karate Federation (WKF). The achievement coincides with Nigeria’s hosting of the 2025 African Karate Championship in Abuja, which gathered over 1,000 athletes from 31 countries competing in senior, junior, cadet, para-karate, and wheelchair categories. The championship ran from July 21 to July 28 and was regarded as one of the most successful in recent history, further cementing Nigeria’s leadership in the sport. Agara, who has been at the helm of KFN, has overseen major reforms in the development of karate at the grassroots and elite levels. His leadership has driven improvements in athlete training, coaching certification, and international participation. Speaking at the championship, Agara described his election as a recognition of Nigeria’s progress in karate and reaffirmed his commitment to advancing the sport across Africa. He expressed gratitude to the Federal Government, the Ministry of Sports Development, and other partners for supporting the championship and the country’s overall efforts in sports development. “Our election into the UFAK leadership is not just a personal victory but a national achievement,” he said. “This will strengthen Nigeria’s position in the global karate community and offer greater opportunities for our athletes and officials.” National Sports Commission Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, also commended Agara’s election and Nigeria’s successful hosting of the event. He emphasized that the achievement aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s renewed focus on elevating Nigeria’s status in global sports and using sports as a tool for national unity and economic growth. The championship also served as a platform for Nigerian athletes to showcase their talent, with several medal wins across various categories. Technical Director of the KFN, Dave Jegede, noted the dedication of the national team, stating that the athletes had undergone rigorous training and were well prepared for the continental event. Agara’s election is expected to enhance Nigeria’s influence in continental karate decision-making and attract more international opportunities, including hosting rights and technical partnerships. The development has been widely celebrated within Nigeria’s sports community as a new chapter in the country’s rising sports diplomacy.