Karate: Nigeria, South Africa partner on technical support

Karate: Nigeria, South Africa partner on technical support

The Karate Federation of Nigeria (KFN) and the South Africa Karate Federation have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on technical support for athletes, personnel and officials of both countries.

The MoU was signed in Abuja after a successful hosting of the 2025 Karate African Championship which was held from ju26th to 27th July, 2025 at the Velodrome, package A of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.

Speaking with the media after the signing, the President KFN, Silas Agara, who described the partnership as a turning point for Nigeria, said the MoU will not only enhance the technical development of Nigerian officials but also create a platform for athletes and personnel to train in South Africa and vice versa.

"Mr Pillay has developed Karate to an enviable level in South Africa. And today, we just signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the South Africa Karate Federation and the Nigeria Karate Federation which we enhance technical partnership and sharpen the skills of our technical officials here in Nigeria.

He said, "That means South Africa has certainly gone to a new level when it comes to Karate. South Africa is at the top and we are looking forward to an elder brother like South Africa when it comes to Karate. And with this relationship today and the MoU that has just been signed, that means we are going to have technical collaboration between the South Africa Karate Federation and the Nigeria Karate Federation."

"There would be exchange of personnel, officials and athletes between these two countries. Athletes will have the opportunity of going to South Africa to compete and to be trained. We would see officials from South Africa coming to Nigeria to equally sharpen the skills of our technical experts. We are grateful for the visit and I look forward to fulfilling this MoU to the glory of both countries."

Commending Agara's leadership qualities President, South Africa Karate Federation, Sonny Pillay, urged him to take leadership role in the Commonwealth Karate Federation.

"We'll probably bring Karate team to Nigeria annually to participate in invitational championships and vice versa. I'm always ready to bring technical team to Nigeria to give support on the technical side and I'm sure I speak for President Silas as well. So we are now pledging that we are moving into partnership and we're going to work together.

"I see a very senior position for a gentleman like President Silas, who has done a magnificent job in taking karate in Nigeria to the next level through the activities he has been promoting."