ORGANOGRAM OF THE NIGERIA TAEKWONDO FOUNDATION 1975

PREMIER INDEPENDENT TAEKWONDO VOLUNTARY ORGANIZATION – AUTONOMOUS – NON POLITICAL – NON PARTISAN

VISION STATEMENT; To Perpetuate the Preeminent Leadership and Authority of Pioneers for Advancement of the Traditional Korean Martial Art.      MISSION: To Preserve Our National Historical Legacies for the Empowerment of Future Generations and Grassroots Sports Development

TRIUNE PRINCIPLES & PHILOSOPHIES OF TRADITIONAL KOREAN MARTIAL ARTS

MUYE
Martial Art
 무예 MuYe 武藝 Martial "Skill, Art, Craft, Cultivation" - martial art collectively and martial art in terms of artistic value.

MUDO
Martial Way
무도 MuDo 武道 Martial "Road, Way, Path" - martial art as a path to develop mind, body, and spirit often with cultural, religious, or philisophical basis.
MUSUL
Martial Techniques
무술 MuSul 武術 Martial "Art, Skill, Technique, Method, Tactics" - tactical martial art.

EIGHT SPIRIT OF JIDOKWAN SOLEMNITY

THE VOICE OF TAEKWONDO NEWS NETWORK

Nigeria Shops for Foreign Coach

CHALLENGES OF 2012 LONDON OLYMPIC GAMES & BEYOND compels Nigeria Taekwondo Federation (NTF) to Shop for Technical Adviser from WTF in Korea. Reenacts an Old Arrangement, as the Expected New Coach National will be Seconded from the Nigerian Army. Erstwhile Technical Advisers / National Coaches, Grandmasters Moo Cheon Kim, Jun Rae Park & Byoung Ho Lee including their Nigerian Asst. Coach Master Buba were all Borrowed from the Army.

Bilateral Martial Arts Development in the History of  Nigeria, China Independence Anniversaries

AS NIGERIA & CHINA MARK INDEPENDENCE ANNIVERSARIES:

Nigeria and the People's Republic of China established formal diplomatic relations on February 10, 1971. Chinese Embassy in Nigeria fully supports our national Kung Fu Wu Shu Federation which has become an official event of the National Sports Festival at the turn of the 21st Century. FACT: All Taekwondo Pioneers in Nigeria started martial arts training from Kung Fu in the early 70s. 

In 2003, members of the the Chinese Diplomatic community were held spellbound by the skillful and aerobatic display of kung Fu by a Nigerian Wu Shu whizboy, Sifu Jerry Leonard Uche, nicknamed JET LI of Nigeria, who was instantly celebrated as an oustanding performer at the Indoor Sports Hall of the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.

Revealed! Unsung Veterans in the Korean Martial Arts @ Nigerian 51st Independence Anniversary 

LEGENDS ON PARADE:

John Chukwu, Actor, Comedian, DJ, Entertainment Impressario, practised Taekwondo along with family members, friends and associates, graded brown belt;

Tee Mac Iseli, members of his Tee Mac Band at then Surulere Night Club, Shitta, Surulere, Lagos) trained under Master Aime and contributed the success of the inaugural black belt grading of 1977;

Enebeli Elebuwa (active practitioner, trained under Master Aime, held the brown belt grade in Taekwondo & as the then NTA Director of Programmes, hosted studio LIVE demonstration  by Taekwondo group led by Master Aime; 

Philip Phil-Ebosie, publisher of THE CYCLIST, former NTA Director of Programmes, active practitioner, held the blue belt rank, produced a TV movie titled WINDS OF OUR TIME featuring a Taekwondo footage.

The above icons join other legends namely Fela Anikulapo, Hakeem Shitta in our Nigeria Taekwondo Foundation National Hall of Honour.

TAEKWONDO HONOURS AIKHOMU

Admiral Augustus Aikhomu (20 Oct 1939 - 17 Aug 2011).. The No.2 Sportsman in the Nation would be Fondly Remembered particularly by the Nigerian Taekwondo Fraternity as Mark of APPRECIATION of His LOVE for SPORTS especially for His Wisdom by which He Resolved a Generated Debate over the Value attached to Medal Colouration During the Reception Ceremony held at the Indoor Sports Hall of the National Stadium, Organized by Presidency in Celebration of our 1992 Olympic Champions from Barcelona. He Justified that Taekwondo Champion Oghenejobo Received the Same Cash Reward as Awarded to Other Scoring Sports for Non-Scoring Silver Medal

COMMEMORATIVE WALL OF HONOUR

  PILLARS OF SPORTS TAEKWONDO 

PIONEERS · MASTERS · CHAMPIONS ·  LEADERS ·

CELEBRITIES · ACHIEVERS · PATRONS  

SR.GM  KIM YONG TAE

RAZAQ KOSOKO

SR. GRANDMASTER AIKPA AIME

DR. JACK MBOM

GEN. IBRAHIM BABANGIDA

ADMIRAL AUGUSTUS AIKHOMU

DR./MRS MARYAM BABANGIDA

GEN SANI ABACHA

GRANDMASTER JUN RAE PARK

MASTER MOO CHEON KIM

ASSO. GM / PROF. EMMANUEL MAXIMIN-AGHA, EP, NDASCE, NASSM

GRANDMASTER PIUS ILUKHOR

MASTER GEORGE ASHIRU

SENATOR UCHE CHUKWUMERIJE, 4^TH DAN

CHIEF M.K.O. ABIOLA

NAVY CMDR. K. OLUKOTUN. RTD

CHIEF FRANCIS O. IFIE

GRANDMASTER BYOUNG HO LEE

PROF. M. O. AJISAFE

LUCA SS GADANI

ASSO GM PETERS OGHENEJOBO

SIM WOON PAN

CAPT. ISAIAH GOWON, RETD, 1^ST DAN

TUNDE OREBIYI

DSP GIDEON AKINSOLA

COMPOL SAIDU ALIYU

CHIEF HASIB MOUKARIM, 1^ST DAN

REV. PATRICK EGBELE

ALH. / ENGR. H. O. SUNMONU

PROF. JOHN A. ADEDEJI (RIP)

PROF. ANDREW O. AJIDUAH (RIP)

DR. EMMANUEL E. IKPEME

MR. HAKEEM SHITTA, RIP

COL. AHMED USMAN

PROF. VERONICA IGBANUGO

DR. ADOLPHUS MEZUE

MR. SHADRACK ADEOTI

PROF. M. A. DANIYAN

PROF. FIDELIS OGAH, OON, 3^RD DAN

AIG / SENATOR SIMEON O. ODUOYE

ENGR. ANTHONY OLAWUNMI GASPER

MRS. ELIZABETH ODUGBESAN

MR. I. G. OMOLUMO

MR. JOHN KAYODE JEGEDE, (SAN)

CHIEF JAMES IBORI
ALHAJI SANI YERIMA
ADAMU MU'AZU

PROF. ROGERS MAKANJUOLA, 2^ND DAN

DR. NICK IGBOKWE, 1ST DAN

CHIEF LUCKY NOSAKHARE IGBINEDION, 4TH DAN

DR. SAM OMINYI EGWU
OTUBA GBENGA DANIEL, 4TH DAN WTF, HON

BARRISTER AKHIODE OYAGHIRI, RIP, 1ST DAN

ANTHONY EKAIDEM, 5TH DAN
MARGARET ELIZABETH ACHIBI, 5TH DAN
BOLA ODUNLAMI, 4TH DAN
UZOMA ONWUCHEKWA, 2ND DAN

LECTURE NOTES ON HISTORY OF TAEKWONDO ACCORDING TO THE CREATOR GEN. HONG HI CHOI (1918 - 2002)

FAQ : What is Martial Art?

GENERAL CHOI SPEAKS : The term ‘martial art’ means those arts concerned with the waging of war yet, curiously, very few practice nowadays meet that definition. By far the majority are relatively recent activities, developed in the 20^th century itself and having only the smallest connection with the battlefield.

The oldest martial art in evidence came into being about 3500BC. In China there is a painting in a tomb along the nile with Hieroglyphic inscription and writing and picture engraved in the pyramid. This proves that the Egyptians had a form of open hand and foot fighting similar to boxing.

FAQ : What is True Meaning of Taekwon-Do?

GENERAL CHOI SPEAKS :Translated from Korean ‘Tae’ means literally to jump, kick or smash with the foot; ‘Kwon’ denotes a fist, chiefly to punch or destroy with the hand or fist; ‘Do’ means art, way or method. The word themselves, Tae Kwon Do, mean “Hand and Foot Art”. A more definitive meaning than this is Art and moral conduct.

 FAQ : Why is Taekwon-Do Both Martial Art and Sport?

GENERAL CHOI SPEAKS : Tae Kwon Do can be considered a martial art and sport as well. Adhering to basic principles is what makes Tae Kwon Do a martial, a physical art and science and sport.

 FAQ : When and How Was Taekwon-Do Born?

GENERAL CHOI SPEAKS : I had been researching, training and teaching Tang Soo. I had created the name Tae Kwon-Do and by 1955 I felt it was time to announce the new name of the art. But rather than just proclaim the name myself, I thought it wise to create the advisory committee for naming.

 FAQ : Which Korean Traditional Martial Arts Schools Were Involved in the Creation of Taekwon-Do?

GENERAL CHOI SPEAKS : In the late autumn of 1959, I invited the leaders of four major kwans to my home. Byung Jik No (represented Song Moo Kwan); Kwe Byung Yoon (Jidokwan); Nam Suk Lee (Chang Moo Kwan); and Ki Hwang (Moo Duk Kwan). I represented Oh Do Kwan.

 FAQ :  To What Extent Was Korean Government Involved in the Formation of Taekwon-Do?

GENERAL CHOI SPEAKS :…We (advisory committee for naming TKD) received permission to use the new name of Taekwon-Do from President Syngman Rhee (first elected leader of South Korea in 1948, ruled till 1960). In recollection, I think it was possible to make the name “TKD” because I was a two-star general, and had a powerful…and good relationship with President Rhee…The name Taekwon-Do gradually spread through the military ranks and civilian students. The Korean government threw its full support and financially backing behind Taekwon-Do as Korea’s official martial art. 

FAQ : What Technical Emphasis Distinguishes Taekwondo from Karate and Kung Fu?

GENERAL CHOI SPEAKS: Taekwon-Do is a scientific martial art based on Newtonian Physics. It must be stressed that Taekwon-Do is not Karate or Kung Fu. It is an original art which employs the extra strength of the legs to good effect by emphasizing jumping and kicking techniques.

 FAQ : What Are the Original Ideals for Practitioners of Taekwon-Do?

GENERAL CHOI SPEAKS: Formulated in March 1955, the ideals fpr the Taekwondo practitioners are:

1.        By developing an upright mind and a strong body, we will acquire the self-confidence to stand on the side of justice at all times.

2.        We shall unite with all men in a common brotherhood, without regard to religion, race, national or ideological boundaries.

3.        We shall dedicate ourselves to building a peaceful human society in which justice, morality, trust and humanism prevail.

Akin to the above is the Taekwon-Do student pledge:

1.        I shall observe the Tenets of Taekwon-Do

2.        I shall respect instructors and seniors

3.        I shall never misuse Taekwon-Do

4.        I shall be a champion of freedom and justice

5.        I will build a more peaceful world

The following Tenets of Taekwon-Do should serve as a guide for all serious students of the art

1. Humility
2. Modesty
3. Perseverance
4. Self-control
5. Indomitable Spirit

TAEKWONDO STUDENT PLEDGE:

I shall observe the Tenets of Taekwondo

I shall respect instructors and seniors

I shall never misuse Taekwondo

I will a champion of freedom and justice

I will build a peaceful world

DOJANG RULES OF CONDUCT:

THE DOJANG IS PLACE WHERE TAEKWONDO IS LEARNED PRACTISED AND IS GUIDED BY CERTAIN INTERNATIONAL NORMS AND PRACTICE AS FOLLOWS:

1. Be courteous and helpful to all students and visitors to the Dojang
2. Be respectful to senior and acknowledge with bows
3. Salute the flag and bow to the instructor upon entering and leaving the Dojang
4. Shoes, jewellery, gum or food, alcohol and smoking are not allowed in the Dojang
5. Horseplay (i.e. rough play), profanity (abuses words) and idle chatter are strictly prohibited
6. Maintain your self-control, never lose your temper or behave irresponsibly
7. Keep your Dobok clean and always fold and carry your uniform neatly
8. Regularly cut your toe and finger nails short
9. Always be neat and tidy observing personal hygiene and grooming habits
10. Always endeavour to fulfill your club membership obligations
11. Be loyal to your instructor and club & be a good ambassador of Taekwondo Jidokwan
12. Keep your training, grading records, certificates and licences meticulously

CHARTER OF TAEKWONDO

PREAMBLE BY GEN. CHOI: Since Taekwondo is an art of self defence which aims at a noble moral rearmament, high degree of intellectual achievement, graceful techniques, formidable power and beauty of physical form, it can be considered as a part of one's daily life, just as are breathing and thinking. As the founder of Taekwon-Do, I would like to define its philosophy, principles, and purposes so that these might be applied to bring about the flowering of morality, beauty, and power in harmony with the immortal spirit
                                                          PART 1.
Through scientific practice of Taekwondo one can significantly improve his health and nourish his intellect. One can be in a position to aid others in the cause of justice, thereby promoting social ethics and morals, thus helping to bring about a happier and more peaceful society.
                                                          PART 2.
In order to come to terms with life, in spite of its detestable aspects, and with the idea of death, one ought to continue studying the art of Taekwondo to learn techniques of power and grace, and to enlarge his spiritual realm. Thus the motivations to study shall be an inheritance to limitless value succeeding generations.
                                                           PART 3.
Human beings come into the world with simple needs and desires. They need not become avaricious but ought to remain always humble and merciful, never compromise their principles, nor be swayed by selfish motives, to insure freedom and independence of Taekwon-Do so that it will be passed on in its pure form.
                                                           PART 4.
Since all students of the art are subject to the same rules of conduct and judged according to the same criteria regardless of their stations in life, their origins, and their religious convictions, they demonstrate to the world the essential equality and brotherhood of man.
                                                            PART 5.
Modern society is characterized by selfish preoccupation with material excess and unnecessary dependence on machines. Moral society is characterized by self discipline, sacrifice, and devotion. Dedication to the art can promote change toward a moral society.
                                                            PART 6.
Those who devote themselves to their fellows and live accordingly to the dictates of their consciences are always helpful toward their juniors and show respect toward their instructors and their seniors.

A beginning constitutes a significant part of the whole endeavour. Therefore, students of Taekwon-Do should not fail to take action whenever to do so might benefit the society. If he behaves thus, he himself will benefit most.

COMPOSITION OF TAEKWONDO

Taekwondo is composed of fundamental movements, patterns, dallyon, sparring and self-defence techniques that are so closely related that it is impossible to segregate one phase of instruction from another. Fundamental movements are necessary for sparring and patterns, while both patterns and sparring are indispensable for perfection of fundamental movements.

As in military training, Taekwondo progression follows a certain parallel:

1. Fundamental Movements
2. Tallyeon 

3. Patterns
4. Sparring
5. Self-defence 

= Maintenance of equipment

= Platoon tactics
= Field exercises in simulated combat conditions
= Actual Combat 

= Individual soldier's basic training

THE PHILOSOPHY OF TAEKWONDO 

The philosophy of Taekwondo is based on the ethical, moral, and spiritual standards by which men can live together in harmony, and its art patterns are inspired by the ideals...from Korean history. Therefore, under no circumstances should Taekwondo be used for any commercial or political purpose whatsoever.

I have set forth the following philosophy and guidelines which will be the cornerstone of Taekwondo and by which all serious students of this art are encouraged to live.

1. Be willing to go where the going may be tough and do the things that are   worth doing even though they are difficult.
2. Be gentle to the weak and tough to the strong.
3. Be content with what you have in money and position but never in skills.
4. Always finish what you begin, be it large or small.
5. Be a willing teacher to anyone regardless of religion, race or ideology.
6. Never yield to repression or threat in the pursuit of a noble cause.
7. Teach attitude and skill with action rather than words.
8. Always be yourself even though your circumstances may change.
9. Be the eternal teacher who teaches with the body when young, with words when old, and by moral precept even after death.

UP TO DATE HISTORICAL CHRONICLE OF NATIONAL & GLOBAL TAEKWONDO SPORT

1882
● The Dan/kyu system was adopted for Judo by Master Kano in Japan. This was the first belt ranking system in any of the martial arts.

PRE- & POST-INDEPENDENCE KOREAN MARTIAL ARTS DEVELOPMENT 1945 - 1966

1945
 ● Korea gains independence from Japan August 15th 
1946

● Jidokwan a.k.a Chosun Yun Moo Kwan is founded in Korea on March 3^rd by GM Sang Sup Chun

1951
● Nigeria becomes a member of the International Olympic family

1952 
● Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) makes a début at the Helsinki Olympiad

1955 
● Taekwondo is formed in Korea on April 11.

1960
● Nigeria gains independence from Britain, October 1

1964
● Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) wins first Olympic medal in boxing through Navy man Nojeem

Maiyegum, trained by Hogan Bassey, national coach
1965
● Taekwondo takes root in West African country of Ivory Coast
● The 1st All Africa games Games were held in 1965 in Brazzaville, Congo. 

1966
● International Taekwondo Federation (ITF) formed March 22 with headquarters based in Ontario, Canada

●The Supreme Council for Sports in Africa was established in July 1965 in Brazzaville as the Comite Permanent du Sport Africain (CPSA). Itspresent title was adopted in Bamako on 14 December 1966. Since 3 July 1977
1967
● The Palgwe series and the Taeguek series are very recent poomse which were originally introduced and adopted by the Korean Tae Kwon Do Association on Jan. 30, 1967. Grand Master Hae Man Park (Chung Do Kwan) was one of the creators of the Taegeuk Poomse. At the founding of the Korean Tae Kwon Do Association (KTA) the founding members agreed to favor none of the forms of the participating schools, but to create an entirely new series of forms in the interest of overall Tae Kwon Do and to ensure agreement among the different schools. A team of Korean Grandmasters was made responsible for carrying out this project. This committee created the Palgwe- Taegeuk- and the remaining nine black belt poomse, but only a short time later, the Palgwe forms were discarded.
● The President of South Korea declared Tae Kwon Do a national sport.

POST-INDEPENDENCE NIGERIAN-WORLD TAEKWONDO 1971 TO DATE

1971
● The National Sports Commission (NSC) established by a decree in August, to

organize sports in the country.

1973
● Federal Government commissions National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos which

was declared open by then head of state, now retired Gen. Yakubu Gowon.

● Nigeria hosts 2^nd All Africa Games at the National Stadium,

● 1^st edition of National Sports Festival holds at the National Stadium in Lagos

● World Taekwondo Federation (WTF) formed by 19 countries including 3 African countries namely, Egypt, Ivory Coast and Kenya, in Seoul, South Korea.

1974
● Razaq Kosoko’s Kung Fu Club located at Handball Court of the new National

Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.

1975
● Taekwondo introduced in Nigeria (Lagos) on Tuesday 25^th of March by Master Aikpa Aime (a French-speaking 2^nd Dan black belt nicknamed “Charlie Lee” from Ivory Coast, who formed a club named TAEKWONDO JIDOKWAN CLUB which began organized  training on Wednesday 26^th March 1975  in the traditional Korean martial arts at basketball court of  the National Stadium, Lagos. *NOTE: Aikpa Aime was trained by Grandmaster Kim Yong Tae, pioneer father and national instructor of Taekwondo Jidokwan in Ivory Coast 1965-1995.
● Master Aime conducts first grading test to upgrade his students to 8^th Keup Yellow Belt (grade) on 31^st May

● Taekwondo training relocates to Nigerian Model High School, operated by the Labinjo family at Idioro, Mushin,  Lagos, due to inharmonious conditions.

1976
● Taekwondo foundation takes root in Port-Harcourt introduced by Master Dominic. Bassey

● Council of International Sports for the Military (CISM)  adopts Taekwondo

● Taekwondo training returns to the National Stadium.

1977
● Festival of World & Black Arts & Culture holds at National Theatre in Lagos

● Master Aime grades three of his students to 1^st Dan Black Belt, namely: 1. Dominic Bassey 2. Kofi Sunday Anani 3. Emmanuel Ikpeme at the indoor sports hall of the National Stadium, Lagos on Sunday, 24^th April, widely publicized in Daily Times newspaper

publicized in the national daily, Daily Times newspaper by sports correspondent  Igninoba Ikpo.
● Pioneer-father of Taekwondo in Nigeria Master Aime leaves the country finally

● George Ope Akinola pioneers Taekwondo on university campus (OAU)

● Yaba College of Technology (Yabatech) pioneers organized Taekwondo

1978
● Dr. Jack Mbom includes Taekwondo along with Karate, Kung Fu in National Institute for Sports (NIS) Course

1979
● Pioneer-member Leo Kunle Labinjo returns from UK to introduce Taegeuk to other pioneer members.
● The 1st African Taekwondo Championships holds April 12-13, 1979 at Abidjan, Ivory Coast. The Participating countries were Benin, Egypt, Gabon, Ghana, Ivory- Coast, Kenya, Lesotho, Maritius, Morocco, Togo,and Upper Volta.  The results of this event was Ivory Coast (Gold), Lesotho (Silver), Upper Volta (Bronze)

● Africa Taekwondo Union (AFTU) founded in Cote d’Ivoire

1980
● International Olympic Committee (IOC) grants WTF recognition.

● Nigeria signs diplomatic relations with Republic of Korea  under President Shehu Shagari administration

1981
● Nigeria United Taekwondo Association (NNTA) formed in Lagos

1982
● Taekwondo adopted as sport for Seoul Olympic games

1983
● Federal government contracts WTF Masters Jun Rae Park & Moo Cheon Kim to train the Nigerian Army in Northern Nigeria

1984
● Federal government adopts Taekwondo as national sport.

● Nigeria United Taekwondo Association (NNTA) formed in Lagos.

● Taekwondo makes a debut at 10^th Nigeria University Games in Unife now OAU

● Taekwondo adopted for inclusion in the WAEC / GCE Syllabus

● Prof Emmanuel Maximin-Agha pioneered Taekwondo at the Nigerian Army Intelligence School (NAIS), Apapa, Lagos, approved by late head of state, Gen. Abacha

● International Olympic Committee formally adopts Taekwondo as demonstration sport for the 1988 Olympiad

1985
● NNTA & NUTA factions merge to form Nigeria TKD Blackbelt College (NTBBC)
●  Taekwondo debuts as demonstration event at Kwara 6^th Nat’l Sports Festival.

1986 ● Nigeria Taekwondo federation (then Taekwondo Association  of Nigeria) formed with the constitutional responsibility “to develop Taekwondo as a sport” across the nation.
● Taekwondo Association of Nigeria (TAN) affiliated to the World Taekwondo Federation (WTF) based in Seoul, South Korea.
● Visiting 13-man WTF demonstration team presents an exhibition in Lagos

● 1^st World Cup Taekwondo championship holds in Colorado, Springs, USA.
1987
● Taekwondo inaugurated into the National Sports Commission (NSC) by then Air Commodore Bayo Lawal on July 13.

● Former governor of Bauchi State, Col. Joshua. M. Madaki of the Nigerian Army appointed chairman of Taekwondo Association of Nigeria.. Nigeria makes triumphant 5 medals debut at 4^th All African Games in Kenya
● WAEC / GCE Syllabus 1987 features Taekwondo included under Physical Health Education Curriculum

● Ms. Tayo Popoola grades to 1^st Dan, becoming TKD first female blackbelt

●  Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) adopts Taekwondo as self-defence programme for Aviation Security taught by Master Francis Eyo-Asuquo

● 1^st Women’s World Taekwondo championship held in Barcelona, Spain

1988
● Lt. Col. Ayuba B. Gankon appointed Chairman of  TAN

● Rivers State hosts 7^th National Sports Festival in Port-Harcourt with Emmanuel Ikpeme appointed as Rivers State Taekwondo Headcoach.

● 1^st Korean Ambassador’s Cup national Taekwondo competition holds in Lagos sponsored by His Excellency, Mr. Chai Ki Oh

● TAN attends Seoul Olympic in Olympic Games as observer-participant

● Nigeria Army Taekwondo Association formed with the Motto: Be Aggressive

● 11^th WTF International Referee holds in Kenya. J. Nnaji represents Nigeria

● Nigeria becomes affiliated as member of Africa Taekwondo Union

● TAN National Grading holds in Lagos. Rivers State sends team to upgrade

1989
● Taekwondo becomes a scoring event at 8^th National Sports Festival in Lagos

● Taekwondo Association of Nigeria (TAN) Referee Council formed in Lagos by 32 blackbelt members
● Master Moo Cheon Kim leaves Nigeria finally.
● 9^th Word Taekwondo Championships holds in Seoul, Nigeria represented
Lt. Col. A.B. Gankon (Chairman), Osita Egwim & Tony Anafulu (Athletes
● 1^st Inter-State Taekwondo competition holds in Lagos sponsored by Dr. C.O. Williams

1990
● Federal government approves Taekwondo training for State Security Service 1^st National Referee Course holds at Kwara State, Ilorin presided over by Master Jun Rae Park leaves Nigeria finally.

● Taekwondo becomes scoring event at 13^th NUGA Games held in University of Calabar

1991
● Master Byoung Ho Lee arrives Nigeria as 3^rd Nigeria Army TKD trainer

● Peters Oghenejobo dethrones Egyptian h/weight world champion, Amr Khairy

● Taekwondo participates in inter-zonal organized Bauchi 9^th Nat’l Sport Festival

● 25^th WTF IR Seminar and the 10^th World Taekwondo championships holds in Athens. Nigeria represented by Tony Anafulu and Wole Gege.
●  Pillar of Sports in Africa, Chief M.K.O. donates to the formal launching Taekwondo at the University of Ibadan.
● Navy Commander Kola Olukotun assumes office as new TAN Chairman
● Abuja replaces Lagos becoming Federal Capital Territory of Nigeria
● Taekwondo introduced into the Nigeria Police Force by Master Sunday Igbinedion (5th Dan) and late Supol H. Nwankwesi, SOT, on Oct 10.

1992
● Nigeria attends pre-Olympic 1^st international friendly Taekwondo Competition held in Cotonou, Benin Republic , West Africa. Nigeria won 4 gold medals.

● Chief Francis Ifie takes over as new Chairman of TAN

● Taekwondo features in the Barcelona 25^th Olympic Games for the second time, Nigeria participates with a 5-man team made up of Chief Francis O. Ifie (chairman), Master Byoung Ho Lee (6^th Dan, WTF) Technical Adviser),

Patience Anyaegbunam (representative for IOC youth camp) Roland Dafejimue Adogbeji (welter weight), Peters Emmanuel Oghenejobo (heavy-weight). Peters competes in the finals winning lone silver medal, the First and only Olympic medal in for Nigeria & Africa.

● Taekwondo adopted as priority sport by Presidential Monitoring Committee

● National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) adopts Taekwondo
● Father of Taekwondo in Rivers State, Barrister Akhiode Oyaghiri (1^st Dan, WTF) appointed as Commissioner of Finance & Economic Planning in Sept.
● 30 States and Abuja endorse appointment of Emmanuel Ikpeme as Nat’l Coach
● Edo State organizes 1^st Inter Local Government Area Taekwondo competition, held in Benin City.

● Nat’l Institute for Sports (NIS) approves Taekwondo as official Course programme

● Emmanuel Ikpeme and George Ashiru contracted by National Institute for Sports (NIS) as lecturers
● George Ashiru voted by national technical committee as Best Referee during 1^st Chairman’s Cup open Taekwondo championship held in Lagos

1993
● Captain Isaiah Gowon (rtd) named as Chairman of TAN, names black belter Adamu Buba as new national coach.
● Olympic champion, Oghenejobo graduates from NIS as certified Grade-3 coach

● Master George Ashiru pioneers poomse & sudden death competition in Lagos

● Nigeria debuts at World Games at the Hague, represented by Emmanuel Ogu who wins bronze medal in the Fly Weight category.

● 11^th World Taekwondo championships hold in USA, Peters Oghenejobo wins heavy-weight bronze medal.

1994
● Nigeria Police Taekwondo Association (NPTA) formed with Alhaji Saidu Aliyu appointed as inaugural Chairman, and CSP Gideon Akinsola named Secretary.

1995
● 20^th Anniversary of Taekwondo in Nigeria celebrated in conjunction with 1^st Mouka Foam Open Taekwondo championship jointly sponsored by Chief Hasib Moukarim, MD, Mouka Foam Industries Limited, who donates a

dedicated birthday cake, organized and held under the auspices of Lagos State Taekwondo Association, sanctioned by LSTA Chairman Jonathan Nnaji.
● Master Emmanuel Ikpeme, Headcoach, LSTA, collects signatures from dignitaries, sports administrators, officials, competitors and athletes at the Mouka Foam tourney as evidence of endorsement for the purpose of formalizing registration of NTF75 as a legal corporate organization.

● Lagos State Polytechnic initiates campaign of Taekwondo for Nipoga games
● Former TAN national coach, Ghanian-born Abraham Papafio returns back to Ghana after 13 years in Nigeria
● 6^th All Africa Games holds in Harare, Nigeria wins 2 gold, 1 silver, 2 bronze including first-ever welter weight gold medal won by Olakanmi Ogunniyi

● TAN Chairman, late Captain Isaiah Gowon (rtd) voted AFTU 3^rd V. President

● 1^st Inspector-General of Police Taekwondo Inter-zonal championship holds.

1996
● Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Sports pioneers democratization of sports administration in Nigeria with fanfare at the Mobolaji Sports Centre, Yaba.

● Nigeria Police Taekwondo Association organizes 1^st Taekwondo Black Belt Grading to inaugurate the NPTA Black Belt College, held in Ikeja, Lagos. 16 fellow and associate students are graded to  the blackbelt 1^st dan by

Master Ikpeme supported by Master Tony Wakyu, Sunday Igbinedion, Sgt Peter Obi and Pc Samson Onwenubuzie on December 1, witnessed by Gideon.O. Akinsola and Fmr. Chairman of Taekwondo Association of Nigeria (TAN)

Chief Francis Ifie, (1^st Dan HON).

1997
● Lagos State Sports Council formally launches Martial Arts Commission

● Nigeria Taekwondo Foundation 1975 incorporated as NTF75 Ventures by CAC

● Yaba College of Technology (Yabatech) formally registers Taekwondo as collegiate sport activity

● THISDAY newspapers pioneers weekly martial arts column on Saturdays,

titled BEYOND KICKS & PUNCHES anchored by Emmanuel Ikpeme, edited by Eniola Bello.

● COMPLETE SPORTS becomes first daily sporting newspaper to run a weekly

MARTIAL ARTS column anchored by George Ashiru

1998
● Imo State becomes first state in Nigeria (South East) to host the National Sports Festival in its 11^th edition. The State makes  history as the first State to host Taekwondo championships in under a new gym it built for Taekwondo training.

● Cross River State launches own chapter of Black Belt College
● Dr. Emmanuel Ikpeme becomes first Sole Administrator, Cross River State Sports Council, Calabar, also celebrated as the first executive sport administrator in Nigeria to receive the NTF75 national black belt honours award by the Black Belt College in recognition and appreciation of his exemplary leadership and monumental contributions to the Art & Sport.

1999
● Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki, inaugurates NTF75 as official advisory body
● Compol Simeon Oduoye, Military Administrator decorated with Black Belt 2^nd Dan by the NTF75 Federal Black Belt College at the Unity Square.
● Female Taekwondo debuts at 7^th All Africa Games in Johannesburg as Nigerian women competitors win 3 gold medals.

2000 ● NTF75 sets new year agenda, declaring 21^st Century as Millennium of Professionalism and Globalization, for the advancement of Nigerian Taekwondo
● Nigerian Law School, Abuja, holds inaugural black belt grading organized by the NTF75 in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) where the Director General, Mr. John Jegede, is honoured with the Blackbelt 1^st Dan. Female law graduate, Miss Chinye Ochei becomes first graduate-student  to be tested and  promoted to 1^st Dan Blackbelt. The event was facilitated by Master Modestus Okoro, pioneer of Taekwondo in the legal institution.

● Grandmaster Ikpeme, others voted among 1000 Outstanding Sports Persons in Nigeria by SPORTS NOW published by the Vanguard International Newspapers.

● Olympic champion Peters Oghenejobo appointed and formally sworn in as Chairman, Delta State Taekwondo Association
● George Ashiru appointed Chairman, Ogun State Taekwondo Association

2001
● International Jidokwan Federation (IJF) based in Ohio, USA admits NTF75 as member, the body subsequently qualifies & certifies Emmanuel Ikpeme as Grandmaster, 8^th Dan who is  installed as the IJF national President and representative through the approval of Grandmaster Patty Inglish, 9^th Dan.
MISSION: To strategically REVIVE - PRESERVE JIDOKWAN promote and market IJF and spread its influence across the 36 States of Nigeria and penetrate government quaters in mutual coexistence with other governmental national Taekwondo federations.
● Federation of Cameroonian Taekwondo (FECATAE) contracts Grandmaster Ikpeme as Technical Adviser and International Referee / Judge to urganize 2nd Central Africa Cup Taekwondo Championships held in Yaounde.

● Yaba College of Tech hosts 12^th Nipoga Games featuring Taekwondo for the first time as scoring sport.

2002
● Creator of Taekwondo, General Hong Hi Choi dies in Korea, aged 83.

● Nigeria Police Taekwondo Assoc honours Messrs Bassey, Kofi & Ikpeme during a visit of Korean Taekwondo experts to Nigeria, 7^th-10^th October

2003
● Shell Club Ogun Martial Arts Section, organizes NTF75 28^th Anniversary of Taekwondo in Nigeria & Seminar THEME: Unlocking Your Hidden Potential Through Sports and Self-defence lecture delivered by Prof. Andrew Ajiduah, 5^th Dan, celebrated at Shell Edjeba Learning Village (ELV) Multi-Purpose Hall, Edjeba, Warri, Delta State, featuring international black belt honours award for Shell executives to inaugurate the Shell Club Ogunu Martial Arts Black Belt College.
● 8^th All African Games held in Abuja unites Nigeria Taekwondo foundation members with their long cherished pioneer Grandmaster Kim Yong Tae, 9^th Dan WTF. Total 35 Nigerian Blackbelts officials and umpires participated in the WTF IR Seminar at the Games. Over 2000 calisthenics Taekwondo students trained by North Korean experts feature in the closing ceremonies demonstrations at the new National Stadium, Abuja.

● Chief Jonathan Nnaji takes over as interim Chairman of TAN

● Inaugural Chairman of Taekwondo Association of Nigeria,  Major General (retired) Joshua Mamman Madaki dies in road crash May 7, born 6-7-47.

2004
● Supreme Council for Sport in Africa (SCSA) Zone-3 adopts NTF75 as member
● Former First Lady Mrs./Dr Maryam Babangida honoured with 2^nd Dan by the NTF75 sanctioned by the International Jidokwan Federation, USA.
● First Word Cup Taekwondo championship holds in Florida, USA, Nigeria attends featuring represented by a 13-man Edo State team led by Grandmaster Ikpeme
●  Otunba Gbenga Daniel, executive Governor of Ogun State elected as Chairman of the new Taekwondo Federation of Nigeria
● Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) adopts Taekwondo.

2005
● 1^st Nigerian Armed Forces & All Security Agencies Games (Owerri 2005) holds in Imo State Nov 12^th – 20^th includingTaekwondo, THEME: Fostering spirit de corps through sports. MEDAL TABLE:

● World United Martial Association (WUMA), USA,  affiliates NTF75

● 1^st Gateway National Open Taekwondo championship hold in Ogun State, sponsored by the executive governor, His Excellency Otunba Gbenga Daniel

2006
● Father of Rivers State Taekwondo and State Commissioner for Power, Barrister Akhiode Oyaghiri (1^st Dan) dies.
● Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki, celebrates International Year of Sports and Physical Education as proclaimed by the United Nations, organized in conjunction with EBSUTA’s Black Belt College 1^st Anniversary by the NTF75 (Ebonyi State Chapter), President, Associate. Grandmaster E. Maximin-Agha, supported by the Grandmaster Patty Inglish, 9^th Dan President of the New Inyrtnational Jidokwan Federation, Ohio, USA, and Vice Chancellor, Prof. Fidelis Ogah, (OON), 3^rd Dan (HON).




WTF Signs Agreement with ITF on Formation of Taekwondo Integration Coordination Committee

DOHA, Qatar --- The World Taekwondo Federation and the International Taekwondo Federation
agreed on the establishment of a coordination committee to discuss integration matters of the two taekwondo bodies here on Dec. 2, 2006.

The agreement was signed between WTF President Chungwon Choue and ITF President Ung Chang, the North Korean member of the
International Olympic Committee.

Under the agreement, the two parties will set up the Coordination Committee for Taekwondo Integration, which will start on simultaneous
discussions regarding the integration of technical and administrative aspects of the two taekwondo bodies. 

2007
● Master Nicholas Dutse represents Nigeria for the first time in 17 years  at the US Open Taekwondo

Championships, competing and winning two gold medals in Sparring and Poomse competitions respectively
● 1^st IBB National Open Taekwondo championship holds in Minna

● Taekwondo black belt Happy Ottah wins first-ever historical gold medal in Kickboxing at 9^th All Africa Games in Algiers for Kickboxing Federation of Nigeria.

2008
● Chika Chukwumerije wins (heavyweight) first-ever Olympic Taekwondo scoring medal (bronze), the only medal for Africa, at Beijing Olympiad.
● Master George Ashiru, 7^th dan appointed international correspondent by US- based world renowned TAEKWONDO TIMES magazine.
● University of Jos (Unijos) organizes 8th Best of the Best Taekwondo championship, held at Naraguta Hostel Basket Ball Court, Plateau State.
● The mother of WTF President Chungwon Choue, Mme. Chung-myung Oh, passes away in the morning (May 26, 2008) due to chronic illness. She was 87.

2009 
●  Nigerian-Korean Ambassador’s Cup Taekwondo championship elevated to international level tournament event with maiden edition holding in Lagos, sponsored by Korean Ambassador His Excellency Young Kuk.

● Lekki Taekwondo Academy (LTA) is born in Lagos as the first privately owned and incorporated Club founded by Messrs. Bola Odunlami, 4th Dan, Hon., (Pioneer CEO/President), CO-FOUNDERS: Seyi Ajibola (Vice President) and Grandmaster Emmanuel Ikpeme (Technical Adviser / Chief Instructor, for youth & grassroots development. Board Members: Prof. Rogers Vibila 6^th Dan (Patron). Uzoma Onwuchekwa 1^st Dan (Executive Grand Patron). Instructors: Master Charles Ebenuwah & Master Tunji Akinwande
● Taekwondo Poomsae will be on the official programme of the 2009 University Games scheduled to be held in Belgrade from July 1 – 12, 2009. Also featuring at the 25^th Summer Universiade is Kyeorugi. This is according to executive promise made by Dr. Simsa Jasmic, vice president of the Organizing Committee of the 2009 Belgrade Universiade.  The idea of putting Poomsae (pre-arranged forms and patterns of Taekwondo) on the 2009 Belgrade Universiade programme was first proposed at the 2^nd International Taekwondo Symposium in October 2007 at the University of California, Berkeley, USA.
● Nigeria Taekwondo Black Belt College (NTBBC), new elected board headed by Master George Ashiru launches historical website for the institution in 25 years. www.ntbbc.ng.org
● Taekwondo Hall of Name, USA, inducts Master George Ashiru, 7^th Dan & Beijing Olympic champion Chika Chukwumerije.

2010
● Korean Cultural Centre opens in Abuja including Taekwondo Club with Head of the Dojang, Mohammed Abdul-Malik, 3^rd appointed as chief  instructor, May 25.

● The 2nd World Youth Taekwondo Camp held from July 26-31, 2010 in the South Korean cities of  Seoul and Muju. The camp was aimed at empowering Taekwondo athletes and exposing them to the modern rudiments of the sport. Out of a total of 25 countries that participated in the event, the Nigerian team comprising of six athletes led by the coach Abdul-Malik Mohammed which finished as the third best Junior Taekwondo team in the world. The team was sponsored by the Korean Cultural Centre Nigeria.

● Former national chairman of  the Nigeria Taekwondo Federation (NTF), and MD/Chairman of Strike Force Security Ltd, Captain Isaiah Gowon (rtd) dies.
2011
● 2nd Agoma Open Championships holds in Lagos organized and sponsored by Olympian, AGM Peters Oghenejobo, 7th Dan
● Taekwondo Hall of Fame (TKDHOF) approves nominations of three Nigeria Taekwondo Foundation members namely Grandmaster Emmanuel Ikpeme, 9th Dan, Grandmaster Pius Ilukhor, 8th Dan and Master Nicholas Dutse including three accompanying elite practitioners and patrons, Master Bola Odunlami, Master Uzoma Onwuchekwa and master Anthony Ekaidem for 2011 Annual Award and Induction ceremony holding in Seoul, South Korea in August. 

● Peters Emmanuel Oghenejobo received Awards for a good job at the WTF World Qualification Tournament for 2012 London Olympic Games by the WTF President Dr. Chungwon Choue in Baku-Azerbaijan.
● 17thNational Sports Festival tagged Garden City Games holds in Port-Harcourt, ending with Rivers State.topping the medal table in both Taekwondo and overall medal table.
●  Taekwondo Hall of Fame Award & Ceremony (tagged Korea 2011) held at the historic World Taekwondo Headquarters gymnasium, Kukkiwon, Seoul, August 23 - 25. A total of seven Nigeria were selected to receive special recognition at the historic ceremony.  Others receiving recognition include Dr. Un Yong Kim, Kuk Hyun Jeong (4 time World Champion), and Wong Liang Ming of Singapore


REPORT ON POST-TAEKWONDO HALL OF FAME AWARD RECEPTION CEREMONY FOR 7 INDUCTED NIGERIANS, HELD IN LAGOS, 3RD SEPT 2011:

As instructed by Grandmaster Gerard Robbins, Executive Director of TKDHOK, the post-Award & Induction Ceremony of the 2011 Taekwondo Hall of Fame in honour of inducted Nigerians was held at Entrance C & D training centre of the Nigeria Taekwondo Black Belt College (NTBBC), National Stadium, Lagos, from 8 - 10 am. Federal Government sent a delegation from the Nigeria Customs Service. Also present were representatives of the Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force. The Nigeria Police Force was represented by AGM Peter Awodi. The event which received print and electronic media coverage by NTA, AIT, NEXT, witnessed a record of seven outstanding Nigerians presented with their Certificates as earlier awarded and inducted in Seoul, South Korea, contained in a royal blue coloured velvet file cover emblazoned with TKDHOF golden logo. CERTIFICATES SIGNED BY GM GERARD ROBBINS as follows.

            

         INDUCTEES                         CITATION          

1. GM Emmanuel Ikpeme...Lifetime Achievement

2. GM Pius Ilukhor..............Pioneer Champion of Nigeria

3. Master George Ashiru....Technical Adviser of TKDHOF

4. Anthony Ekaidem............Instructor Excellence - Nigeria

5. Margaret Achibi-Binga...Pioneer Champion Nigeria

6. Bola Odunlami.................Supporter

7. Uzoma Onwuchekwa........Leadership    

APPRECIATION TO: Federal Government Delegates, the Nigeria Customs Comptroller General, represented, Officers and men of the Nigeria Customs Service including Acting Comptroller V.D.Dimka, Comptroller, Federal Operations Unit Zone A with his entourage; Master George Ashiru, President & Exco of the Nigeria Taekwondo Black Belt College;Master Mykel Eneduwa, President of Kickboxing Federation of Nigeria & Members; GM Micklem Emechete-Attoh & Members of his Nigeria Karate Association; Families and Friends of all the Awardees and Inductees of the 2011 TKDHOF; International Sports Correspondents from all the invited Print and Electronic Media including the Nigeria Television Authority (NTA), Africa Independent Television (AIT), NEXT Newspapers & other Dignitaries too numerous to mention, who contributed to the overall success of the Award Reception Ceremony, as SANCTIONED BY TKDHOF EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, GM GERARD ROBBINS, 8TH DAN.


The Nigeria Taekwondo Foundation 1975 (NTF75) thanks Taekwondo Hall of Fame for the recognition and honour to our country and her Taekwondo pioneers, masters and champions and members.

CONGRATULATIONS TO all the awardees and inductees, most especially to Grandmaster Ikpeme for his Lifetime Achievement award (noted as the first only award for Africa among 10 inductees selected by TKDHOF globally) and to Master George Ashiru who is being inducted for second time (first 2009 as Team Manager of the Beijing Olympic Taekwondo medal-winning Team), and particularly to Margaret Achibi-Binga who, as Assistant Superintendent of the Nigeria Customs Service, has made history becoming the first female blackbelt in Nigeria and 2 times All-Africa Games gold medalist to be inducted into the Official Taekwondo Hall of Fame

FOR THE RECORD:

This year's Taekwondo Hall of Fame Award bring the total number of Nigerians so far inducted to eight:

DATE          YEAR          VENUE              INDUCTEES                AWARD TITLE

AUG 25         2011          SEOUL        GM Emmanuel Ikpeme   Lifetime Achievement

AUG 25         2011          SEOUL        GM Pius Ilukhor             Pioneer Champion of Nigeria

AUG 25         2011          SEOUL        Master George Ashiru    Technical Adviser of TKDHOF

AUG 25         2011          SEOUL       Anthony Ekaidem            Instructor Excellence - Nigeria

AUG 25         2011          SEOUL        Margaret Achibi-Binga   Pioneer Champion Nigeria

AUG 25         2011          SEOUL        Bola Odunlami                 Supporter

AUG 25         2011          SEOUL        Uzoma Onwuchekwa       Leadership

APR 10         2009          N.J. USA      Master George Ashiru    Team Manager, Beijing 2008

APR 10         2009          N.J. USA      Chika Chukwumerije     Africa Olympic Player of the Year

OTHER HONOURABLE MENTION BY TKDHOF:

Ibrahim Yahuza Daka - Taekwondo hall of Fame Technical Advisor

RECOGNIZED ATHLETES BY TKDHOF:

Jamilu Muhammed

Isa Adam

Fatima Ibrahim

Anastasia Osudia

Martins Obiorah

Ani Garba

FACT: The Official Taekwondo Hall of Fame ® was established to recognize those individuals who have made a significant impact or contribution to the art of Tae kwon do.

NIGERIAN TAEKWONDO – On The Ascendancy

-By George H. Ashiru

TAEKWONDO HISTORY IN NIGERIA

A gentleman from Cote D’Ivoire, a French speaking country in the West African coast is credited for introducing Jidokwan Taekwondo to Nigeria in the year 1975.Aikpa Aime was a direct student of Grandmaster Kim Yong Tae, Korea’s pioneer Taekwondo instructor in Africa since 1967. The Jidokwan school became successful and three pioneering black belts of Aikpa Aime; Dominic Bassey, Emmanuel Ikpeme and Kofi Anani, began the great task of building the legacy bestowed upon them since 1977. In the same period (1976), Messrs Don Lee, Jerry Parker and Robert Beaudoin, all Americans, also visited Nigeria in different capacities and introduced the Moo Duk Kwan methods in Western and Northern Nigeria. At this time George Ashiru became a pioneering student of the Moo Duk Kwan school, and later transferred to the Jido Kwan. The Chung Do Kwan school also sprung up in Western Nigeria, pioneered by Mr. Deola Kumpayi.

In the ten ensuing years, these pioneers and their junior colleagues had established what became the most successful martial arts in Nigeria. The Jidokwan school later morphed into the Kukkiwon system under the leadership of various foreign experts, notably Masters Guack Ki Ok, then residing in Ghana; Masters Park Jung Tae and Kim, Moo Cheon, who were brought to train the Nigerian Army in 1983 and other visiting instructors. This group organized to form the Nigeria Taekwondo Black Belt College and subsequently, the Nigerian Taekwondo Association that was formally recognized by the Nigerian Government and the World Taekwondo Federation in 1987.

The Chung Do Kwan school grew independently and affiliated with the International Taekwondo Federation, but did not expand much due to the greater influence of the Kukkiwon methods on the Taekwondo community. However, individual instructors who traveled to live abroad were able to bring about resurgence in the popularity of the ITF, especially in recent years. This culminated in the hosting of Africa’s first ITF International Umpire Course in Lagos, in 2005, and the grading of 32 new umpires and over 50 International Black Belts.

The Moo Duk Kwan school developed independently, joining with the U.K. based World Korean Karate Federation in the early 1980s and spread mainly through the Nigerian universities system by the effort of Master George Ashiru. In the 1990s, the members of this community elected to join with the World Tang Soo Do Association under Grandmaster Jae Chul Shin. This was a glorious period for the Moo Duk Kwan community as Tang Soo Do became a household name again, with membership granted the Nigeria Tang Soo Do Federation by the Nigerian Olympic Committee (probably the first in the world) and allowed to be a demonstration tournament at the Nigerian Olympics. Several states of the federation also created their own state sponsored associations, ensuring the continual existence of Tang Soo Do in Nigeria.

However, the Jido Kwan’s Kukkiwon involvement is the greatest success story of Nigerian Taekwondo. Great strides were made in the sporting side of Taekwondo, which created far more interest in the arts and produced more membership than the traditional one-on-one mentorship that characterized the old schools. Taekwondo quickly became a universal art that was adopted by all the military forces, schools at all levels and even private organizations and foreign embassies. The interests created led the formalization of coaching qualification with the establishment of the Taekwondo coaching curriculum at the prestigious National Institute for Sports in 1992 by Master George Ashiru.

Nigerian athletes were winning medals at all international events; African Championships, World Championships, World Cup and the Olympic Games. World class athletes were coming up yearly, like; Emmanuel Oghenejobo, Martins Obiorah, Chika Chukwmerije, Princess Dudu e.t.c.

THE FUTURE

Nigeria, as the largest black nation in the world – with one in every three Africans being a Nigerian – also has, per square meter, more talents than all other African nations. The harnessing of these talents presents the greatest challenge for the current leaders of Taekwondo in Nigeria. The potential is huge and the opportunity is also massive for professional instructors in Nigeria. The nation is steadily growing on economic front and Nigeria is Africa’s first totally debt free country, having paid out $18 billion in one year to all her creditors. The future for the country and for her youth and the Taekwondo is great and invite lovers of our arts to look toward Nigeria for the world and Olympic greats.

Author:

Master George H. Ashiru

- Chairman, National Grading Commission (WTF Nigeria)

- Member, National Tech. Committee (WTF Nigeria)

- Team Manager, Nigerian Team, Beijing 2008 Olympic Qualifying Tournament, UK & Libya

- Chairman, Ogun State Taekwondo Association

- Chairman, ITF Africa

- Technical Advisor /Taekwondo Hall of Fame ®

*This article was first published in the May 2008 issue of TaeKwonDo Times magazine and is republished her

with permission from the editor. To find out more about TaeKwonDo Times visit www.taekwondotimes.com

History of Nigerian Universities Games (NUGA)

The Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA) was formed in 1965 by the five (5) Universities that were existing in Nigeria then. They are:
University of Ibadan, Ibadan
University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University), Ile-Ife
University of Lagos, Akoka
University of Nigeria Nsukka,
Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.
The association has grown over time and now has over 60 Universities as members.

OBJECTIVES
The major objectives of the association are:

• Promotion of friendship through participation in sporting activities among University students in Nigeria
• Development of sports facilities in Nigerian Universities
• Enhancing the development of sports in Nigeria through contribution of elite athletes from University sports competitions to the national teams.

There are sixteen sporting clubs duely registered in the University and this comprises of fifteen (15) approved sporting events by Nigeria University Games Association (NUGA) and Literary and debate society. The Literary and DEBATE society is included in our sporting club because of their involvement in the Bilateral Games.
The sixteen clubs are as listed below.
• Athletics (Track and Field)
• Badminton
• Basketball
• Chess
• Cricket
• Handball
• Hockey
• Judo
• Soccer
• Squash
• Swimming
• Table Tennis
• Taekwondo
• Tennis
• Volleyball
• Literary and debate

As a student of the University an individual is eligible to join any of the sporting clubs and have the chance to represent the University Teams in all championship such as Nigerian University Association Games (NUGA); West Africa University Games (WAUG), Federation of Africa Student University (FASU) and Federation International of Students University (FISU), Bilateral Games and other extra-mural sporting activities

NUGA GAMES ZONES
In view of the fact that the number of institutions have continued to increase over the years, the Universities are grouped together into seven zones

ZONE A
1. Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto
2. Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria
3. Bayero University, Kano
4. Kano University of Technology, Wudil
5. Federal University of Technology, Minna
6. University of Abuja, Abuja
7. Nasarawa State University, Keffi
8. IBB University, Lapai
9. Kaduna State University, Kaduna
10. Katsina State University, Katsina.

ZONE B

1. Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife.
2. Ladoke Akintola University, Ogbomosho
3. University of Ilorin, Ilorin
4. University of Ado Ekiti, Ado Ekiti
5. Federal University of Technology, Akure
6. Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba
7. Achievers University, Owo
8. Osun State University, Osogbo
9. Joseph Ayo Babalola University, Ikeji-Arakeji

ZONE C

1. Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma
2. University of Benin, Benin City
3. Benson Idahosa University, Benin City
4. Igbinedion University, Okada
5. Delta State University, Abraka
6. Kogi State University, Anyigba.
7. Federal University of Petroleum Res., Effurun

ZONE D

1. Imo State University, Owerri
2. Federal University of Technology, Owerri
3. University of Port Harcourt, Port Harcourt
4. Rivers State University of Science & Technology, Port Harcourt
5. University of Uyo, Uyo
6. University of Calabar, Calabar
7. Niger Delta University, Wilberforce Island, Bayelsa State.
8. Cross River University of Technology, Calabar

ZONE E

1. Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi
2. Adamawa State University, Mubi
3. University of Jos, Jos
4. Federal University of Technology, Yola
5. University of Agriculture, Makurdi
6. Benue State University, Makurdi.
7. University of Maiduguri, Maiduguri.
8. ABTI American University, Yola
9. Gombe State University, Gombe

ZONE F

1. University of Ibadan, Ibadan
2. University of Lagos, Akoka
3. University of Agriculture, Abeokuta
4. Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye
5. Lagos State University, Ojo
6. Redeemer’s University, Mowe
7. Bells University, Otta
8. Tai Solarin University of Education, Ijagun
9. Lead City University, Ibadan

ZONE G

1. University of Nigeria, Nsukka
2. Abia State University, Uturu
3. Ebonyi State University, Abakiliki
4. Enugu State University of Science & Technology, Enugu
5. Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka
6. Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike.
7. Renaissance University, Agbani, Enugu State
8. Anambra State University of Tech., Uli

HOSTS OF NUGA GAMES Edition	Host	Year
1st	University of Ibadan, Ibadan	1966
2nd	University of Lagos, Akoka	1968
3rd	University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University), Ile-Ife	1970
4th	Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria	1972
5th	University of Nigeria, Nsukka	1974
6th	University of Ibadan, Ibadan	1976
7TH	University of Lagos, Akoka	1978
8th	University of Benin, Benin City	1980
9th	Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria	1982
10th	University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University), Ile-Ife	1984
11th	University of Ibadan, Ibadan	1986
12th	University of Port-Harcourt, Port-Harcourt, P/H	1988
13th	University of Calabar, Calabar	1990
14th	University of Ilorin, Ilorin	1992
15th	Not held	1994
16th	Bayero University, Kano	1997
17th	University of Lagos, Akoka	1998
18th	Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria	2001
19th	University of Ibadan, Ibadan	2002
20th	University of Port-Harcourt, Port-Harcourt	2004
21st	University of Maiduguri, Maiduguri	2007
22nd	University of Nigerian, Nsukka	2009
23rd	University of Benin, Benin City	2011

   

KUKKIWON 

TAEKWONDO TAEGEUK POOMSE

POSTERS 

Taegeuk Pal Jang for 1st Keup Graders

Taegeuk Tchil Jang for 2nd Keup Graders

Taegeuk Youk Jang for 3rd Keup Graders

Taegeuk Oh Jang for 4th Keup Graders

Taegeuk Sah Jang for 5th Keup Graders

Taegeuk Sam Jang for 6th Keup Graders

Taegeuk Yee Jang for 7th Keup Graders

Taegeuk Ill Jang for 8th Keup Graders

PHILOSOPHY OF POOMSES

Taegeuk & Palgwe 1 - 8

BEGINNER TO BLACKBELT
SYLLABUS CURRICULUM

THE 1ST NATIONAL SPORTS FESTIVAL (LAGOS, 1973)

In spite of the initial sustained opposition, mostly by critics who felt the Federal Government under Gen. Yakubu Gowon was misplacing priorities arising from the huge capital outlay that will go into the festival, coupled with the fact that it was coming just few months after the country had hosted the All-Africa Games, whereupon millions of naira had been spent, the first festival was held in Lagos from July 20th to August 3rd, 1973 with all the 12 component states, devastated by the internecine war of 1967-70, may not be ready for the maiden edition were put to rest. East Central States, Rivers State and South Eastern States, which were at the epicentre of the 30-months hostilities, took part. Other states that featured included Benue/Plateau, Kano, Kwara, Mid-Western, North Eastern, Western and Lagos.

Mid-Western State (now Edo and Delta State) emerged overall champions. This victory was oiled by three factors:

a. The unprecedented motivation given to the athletes by the Governor of the State, Brigadier S.O.O. Ogbemudia (Rtd.)

b. The superlative performances of the athletes in all the sports

c. The total colonization of the swimming events by the state, resulting in huge medal haul. 

THE 2ND NATIONAL SPORTS FESTIVAL (LAGOS, 1975)

The 2nd edition of the festival was also held in Lagos. Unexpectedly, it was characterized by noticeable poor performance by almost all the state that participated. Understandably, this was due partly to the inability of most states to have faced a multi-sports competition as that before and partly too because of so many flaws on the part of planners and organizers of the festival.

The festival was preceded by a country wide tour of the festival torch in the Olympian spirit.

The opening ceremony of the festival earlier fixed for Saturday, August 2, 1975 had to be shifted to Monday, August 4, 1975 following a Military coup-d’état in which the Government of Yakubu Gowon was toppled on July 29, 1975. Notwithstanding, the state of uncertainty, the new regime of General Murtala Mohammed went ahead with the festival. However, the Head of State was ably represented by his Chief of Naval Staff, Commodore Mike Adelanwa at the opening ceremony.

Expectedly, a scanty crowd attended the opening ceremony because of palpable fear of insecurity occasioned by the coup. At any rate, about 7,000 competitors and over 1,000 officials attended the games. Generally, enthusiasm and morale of all participants was high.

THE 3RD NATIONAL SPORTS FESTIVAL (KADUNA, 1977)

After two editions held in Lagos, the 3rd edition was relocated to Kaduna on the premise that the rotational policy will enable other states to develop their sporting facilities along modern lines and also engender a sense of belonging and self actualization. The major venue for the festival was Ahmadu Bello Stadium Kaduna, though some of the events were held at venues outside the Stadium. The festival was held between July 22 and 31, 1977. It should benoted that Kaduna State was created barely a year before the festival i.e. (Tuesday 3, 1976) out of the old North Central State. Unlike in the previous occasions, this festival was attended by 19 States, following the restructuring of the states.

The new Head of State, General Olusegun Obasanjo declared the Festival opened.

The novelty of hosting the festival outside Lagos the first time was characterized by numerous planning and logistics problems. For example, there are problems of inadequate accommodation whereupon there were more beds than mattresses, very few toilets, adequate transport uncoordinated efforts, and a host of others.

The non-availability of sufficient vehicles to – officials and athletes to and from competition and training venues for instance, created frustration among the various teams, problems could be understood as the after --- the restructuring, in which case some behind schedule, thus creating document problems for the local organizers.

The win-at-all cost syndrome reared its ugly face at this festival as many states fielded over-aged athletes in a strictly age-limit competitions. Large-scale organized cheating was trailed, protested and this adversely affected the schedule some events.

True to its pre-festival rating, Bendel, cast away the highest number of gold medals with 19 state being the least, as she won no medal.

THE 4TH NATIONAL SPORTS FESTIVAL (IBADAN 1979)

Ibadan the Oyo State capital took its turn in hosting the fourth National Sports Festival. Ibadan thus became the second venue after Kaduna to host the competition outside Lagos.

It is of note that 1976 happens to be the same year the Government of General Olusegun Obasanjo scheduled to transit governance from military to a civil rule in a general election. The schedule of programmes for the transition to climaxed on the 1st of October, 1979 when the newly elected civilian government will assume office. Expected critics were of the opinion that the transition programme was of more public importance than the games but instead of jettisoning the idea, the games was held, whereby the Federal Military Government merely shifted the date forward, to early 1979.

Liberty Stadium was the major venue, the host state, Oyo however had to grapple with a myriad of problems. Catering for the contingents from the 19 States was one problem the hosts could manage. Beside, the logistics and funds necessary for hosting thousands of competitors, officials and spectators were grossly inadequate.

Lagos State snatched the leadership position from medal landlords, Bendel State for the first time, in the history of the competition.

THE 5TH NATIONAL SPORTS FESTIVAL (BENIN, 1981)

Bendel State, with an impeccable run in the four previous festivals, finally won the right to host the Fifth National Sports Festival in 1981.

Flaunting an intimidating sporting credential and world-class facilities, Bendel State hosted Nigeria at the Ogbe Stadium, Benin City. Other minor venues, like the University of Benin Sports Centre were used for the competition. Unlike previous festivals, the 1981 edition witnessed fierce competition for medals with Bendel State topping the medals table with Borno State, Gongola and Sokoto. Bendel State became the first to host and win in the history of the National Sport Festival.

THE 6TH NATIONAL SPORTS FESTIVAL (ILORIN, 1985)
Through a combination of factors which inexorably included lack of funds and an unclear political atmosphere, no festival was held in 1983. Four years lapsed before Kwara State was awarded the Hosting rights of the Sixth National Sports Festivals. It afforded the State, the opportunity of completing and test running the modern facilities at its new stadium complex.
For the second time in the history of the festival, a state came top at the expense of Bendel State the traditional leaders of the medals table. The Festival witnessed the emergence of Bauchi State as the third-place winner; a feat attributed the migration of athletes from Bendel State who are seeking for greener pastures. Sokoto State was hitherto weak on the medals table moved digits up from their previous placing.

THE 7TH NATIONAL SPORTS FESTIVAL (PORT HARCOURT, 1988)
Like the games of 1983, the Sports Festival scheduled for 1987 was skipped for a plethora of reasons ranging from lack of funds to last-minute volte-face by some State that had earlier signalled their intention to hot. Rather than hosting a Festival that will flop in facets, the authorities decided to reschedule it for the following year. Rivers State was granted the hosting right for the Festival. The games were held at the Liberation Stadium, Port Harcourt and other designated sporting facilities in the State capital.
Bendel State regained position, while Bauchi, Niger and Sokoto maintained their meteoric rise on the medals table. Some logistics problems arose for the organiser due to the creation of new States on August 27, 1987 bringing the total number of the States to 21, for the first time; also, the Federal Capital Territory (Abuja) took part in the Festival with its own contingent and official colours. For their efforts, they did not win any hue of a medal.