Nigeria Claims Record 15th African Wrestling Title, Tinubu Hails Team’s Dominance

Nigeria’s wrestling team has set a new continental record after clinching its 15th African Wrestling Championships title in Alexandria, Egypt. President Bola Tinubu extended his congratulations to the squad, praising the achievement as a testament to consistency, discipline, and national pride.

The Nigerian contingent delivered an impressive medal haul, securing eight gold and two silver medals from ten events in the women’s division. Across all categories, the team amassed nine gold, four silver, and three bronze medals, showcasing both high-level excellence and collective depth.

President Tinubu singled out wrestlers Mercy Genesis, Adijat Idris, Esther Asaolu, and Mercy Adekuoroye for their composure and technical skill. He also lauded Harrison Onovwiomogbhwo for his victory in the men’s freestyle category. Other athletes including Ebierelayefa Andrew, Stephen Akintewe, Dideikemei Erefagha, Solomon Ulabo, and Saviour Egoli were recognised for their contributions, with the president noting that championships are won through collective effort.

According to the president, the result reflects deliberate improvements in Nigeria’s sports ecosystem, where greater attention is now paid to structure, preparation, and long-term athlete development. “This is how a sporting nation grows not by accident, not by chance, but by design,” he said, adding that the performance in Alexandria reveals a growing pipeline of athletes being groomed for even higher levels of competition.

Tinubu also commended the Nigeria Wrestling Federation, led by its president, Bashir Adeniyi, for sustaining the country’s continental leadership in the sport. “Our athletes remind us of what is possible when focus meets preparation,” he remarked. “They compete as individuals, but they win as Nigeria.”

He urged the team to maintain their discipline and continue to represent the nation with honour in future competitions.