By Aderonke Ojo
The Nigeria Taekwondo Federation (NTF) has celebrated 13 years of productive partnership and cultural exchange with the Republic of Korea through the annual Korean Ambassador’s Cup, a flagship championship that continues to strengthen bilateral ties between both nations.
Speaking at the 13th edition of the event, held on Sunday at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, NTF President Mrs. Temitayo Popoola commended the Korean government and community in Nigeria for their consistent support and investment in the development of Taekwondo across the country.
“It’s actually like an exchange program. The Korean community is recognizing the areas where they are situated, and Nigeria is one of those countries,” she said.
“They are bringing something back to the sport that originated from their country.
“ Having this championship for the 13th consecutive time is a huge achievement, and we must commend the Korean government for their consistency and commitment.”
Popoola praised the Korean Ambassador and the Korean Cultural Centre Nigeria for sustaining the competition, noting that the collaboration has created opportunities for Nigerian athletes to showcase their skills and gain exposure to global best practices.
“If other countries emulate what the Korean Ambassador is doing, our sports will be in a much better place. The Korean community is supporting Taekwondo in different ways, and the Nigerian government has provided the right environment to make it happen,” she added.
She also expressed appreciation to the National Sports Commission (NSC), under the leadership of Chairman Shehu Dikko and Director General Bukola Olopade, for their role in fostering an enabling environment for international sporting cooperation.
Highlighting the Federation’s focus on youth engagement, Popoola explained that the championship provides a platform to empower young people through discipline, dedication, and competitive excellence.
“What we are doing here is engaging our youth. When you engage your youth, you’re building a better future. The Korean government is providing us with resources to sustain that engagement, while we also help them celebrate their sport,” she stated.
Looking ahead, Popoola expressed confidence that sustained programs like the Korean Ambassador’s Cup would help Nigerian athletes excel on the global stage, including the Olympic Games.
“We have more than two years before the next Olympics. If we continue to have programs like this back to back, we’re sure of getting to the podium—and this time, we’re targeting gold,” she affirmed.
In her formal address, Popoola described the tournament as more than a competition — a symbol of shared values, friendship, and respect between both nations.
“This annual championship stands as a strong symbol of friendship, partnership, and shared values between Nigeria and the Republic of Korea. It is a celebration of discipline, excellence, and mutual respect,” she said.
“We are profoundly grateful to His Excellency, the Korean Ambassador, for his continuous support and commitment to the growth of Taekwondo in Nigeria.”
Among dignitaries in attendance were Tak Namgung, Chargé d’Affaires a.i., Embassy of the Republic of Korea; Jeon Juho, Director, Korean Cultural Centre Nigeria; and Mbora Ikanna, Director, Federations and Elite Athletes Department.
The event concluded with impressive displays of skill and sportsmanship from athletes across Nigeria, reinforcing the enduring friendship between both countries and their shared commitment to developing Taekwondo as a tool for youth empowerment and cultural exchange.