Nigerian wrestlers have once again proven their strength and dominance on the continental stage, securing four gold medals at the African Senior Wrestling Championships in Casablanca, Morocco. Despite challenges, including the absence of legendary wrestlers Blessing Oborodudu and Odunayo Adekuoroye, the team put on an unforgettable performance.
Golden Victories The Nigerian women’s freestyle team showcased exceptional skill, with these impressive wins:
- Christianah Ogunsanya (53kg) defeated Nogona Bakayoko of Côte d’Ivoire, winning 11-0 and claiming her third African title.
- Esther Kolawole (62kg) outclassed Egypt’s Farah Ali Hamada Mohamed Hussein with a 10-0 victory, also securing her third African title.
- Damola Hannah Ojo (68kg) triumphed over Côte d’Ivoire’s Amy Youin with a 6-0 win.
- Hannah Reuben (68kg) sealed the dominant display by overpowering Egypt’s Mariam Nasr Mosbeh Mesbah with a commanding 11-0 victory.
What’s Next for Team Nigeria? The president of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation, Hon. Daniel Igali, expressed pride in the athletes, emphasizing their dedication and talent. With more matches ahead, including competitions for Mercy Genesis (50kg), Adijat Idris (55kg), Ebipatei Mughenbofa (65kg), Jumoke Bukola Adekoye (59kg), and Ebi Biogos (72kg), Nigeria’s medal count could rise even further.
Meanwhile, the men’s freestyle athletes—Stephen Izolo (65kg), Ebikeme Newlife (92kg), Oluwafemi Jackson (86kg), and Saviour Egoli (61kg)—are gearing up for Sunday’s bouts, hoping to add more gold to Nigeria’s growing tally.
With such an outstanding start, can Nigeria maintain this winning streak and claim even more victories? Stay tuned as the championship continues!
