Taekwondo players from 12 of the country's states took part in the third edition of the Chika Chukwumerije Sports Foundation Prix Series.

The event seeks to develop athletes, coaches, and referees from grassroots level.

"If a guy wants to try anything funny, I can defend myself," said Terna Shaahu, one of those taking part, to Africa News.

"And if I'm walking on the street and somebody wants to get my bag, I can easily defend myself.

"That's why I do taekwondo, because of self-defence."

The third edition saw the participation of more than 120 athletes from across the country, in different categories.

Chukwumerije, an Olympic bronze medallist in the over-80 kilograms division at Beijing 2008, said taekwondo teaches children self-confidence and helps them become responsible adults.

"In a good Dojan they always teach you to be disciplined," he said.

"That discipline is carried outside the sport to education.

"They can study for longer hours.

"They can conform to the rules of society to make them responsible. 

 "In the Dojan you are constantly taught to confront your challenges."

Taekwondo players have been organising the Championships at the Chukwumerije Sports Foundation for the last three years.

Athletes from Zamfara, Plateau, Ogun, Niger, Kebbi, Edo, Delta, Cross River, Borno, Benue, Abia and host state Abuja competed for the total prize money of N18 million (£3,700/$5,000/€4,000), as well as medals and certificates.