Lagos State has recorded a major milestone in the development of karate in Nigeria with the successful conclusion of the 1st Lagos State All Styles Karate Masters Workshop 2026, which brought together over 133 participants from different karate disciplines.
The two-day event, held from April 18, provided a rare platform for Masters, instructors, and practitioners to share knowledge, refine techniques, and promote unity across various karate styles in the state.
The workshop opened with lectures delivered by Dr. Jack Mbom and Sir Dr. Kyoshi Brasca Ifeadi, who focused on both the technical and philosophical aspects of karate. Their sessions addressed athlete development, officiating standards, and the role of senior instructors in shaping future generations.
The second day featured practical training sessions led by some of the most respected names in Nigerian and African karate, including Hanshi G.O. Goby China, Shihan Mavie Emechete-Attoh, Shihan Alfred Ohimain, Hanshi Lucky Ebunu, and Shihan Ayodeji Oluwafemi Idowu. They were joined by Dr. Mbom and Sir Dr. Kyoshi Brasca Ifeadi.
Other senior practitioners such as Shihan Wilson Okon, Kyoshi Paschal Mac-Brown, Shihan Kingsley Onuelu, and Shihan Biyi Ismail also played key roles in coordinating training across different styles.
A major highlight of the workshop was the strong participation of young karate athletes, who had direct access to senior Masters. Organisers said this mentorship experience is expected to significantly improve their discipline, confidence, and technical growth.
The intergenerational training approach—where senior Masters trained alongside younger practitioners—was widely praised as one of the defining strengths of the event.
Organisers explained that the initiative was designed not only to develop competitive skills but also to promote discipline, character building, and positive youth engagement through martial arts.
Following the success of the inaugural edition, plans are already underway to make the workshop an annual programme, with expectations of broader participation and potential international collaboration in future editions.
Stakeholders say the initiative has further positioned Lagos as a leading centre for karate development in Nigeria, with the potential to set a benchmark for similar programmes across the country.
