LAGOS – Evelyn Fabunmi, Secretary, Nigeria Wushu Kung-Fu Federation (NWKF), on Monday blamed lack of funds and sponsors for irregular activities by the body in the first quarter of this year.
Fabunmi told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos that the development had made it impossible for the body to execute some of its national grassroots programmes.
She added that if the programmes had been executed as proposed, it would have provided an enabling environment for upcoming talents to exhibit their talents
“Our concentration now is to develop the sport at the grassroots; this is the reason we proposed our activities to focus on grassroots championships.
“But lack of funds and sponsors have made it impossible.
“Even when we approached some corporate bodies and individuals with our proposals for sponsorship, they promised to get back to us which they never did,’’ she said.
Fabunmi regretted that the unsavoury situation was enough to discourage existing and budding talents that have been preparing for competitions.
She, however, told NAN that the board of the NWKF was on the verge of embarking on an aggressive marketing drive to create more awareness and attract committed sponsors.
“The idea is to overhaul our activities; we want to make sure that competitions are held regularly to enhance the skills of our committed athletes.
“When such is done, we will invite philanthropists, especially those that are passionate about martial arts as spectators as a way of awakening their interest,’’ she said.
The secretary also appealed to well meaning individuals and corporate bodies to assist in the development of the sport by responding positively to their proposals. (NAN)
