Nigeria delivered an outstanding performance on the opening day of the African Senior Wrestling Championships, securing four gold medals out of a possible five in the women’s wrestling events, Trybal News reports.
Reigning African champion Esther Kolawole (62kg) showcased her dominance with a commanding 10-0 superiority victory over South Africa’s Katelyn Swan, clinching her fifth continental title.
Earlier in the day, Christianah Ogunsanya set the tone for Team Nigeria by claiming the country’s first gold medal in the 53kg category, defeating Ivory Coast’s Nogona Bakayoko 7-1.
Jumoke Adekoye continued the winning streak in the 57kg division, overcoming Algeria’s Achouak Tekouk with an impressive 8-4 victory.
In the 73kg category, Hannah Ojo delivered a composed performance to defeat Cameroon’s Pelagie Wilita 3-1, bringing Nigeria’s gold medal tally to four and reinforcing the nation’s pursuit of a 15th African women’s team title.
Hannah Reuben added to the medal haul with a silver medal finish, defeating Benin’s Kawiyatou Issifou by pinfall (6-0), further highlighting Nigeria’s strong presence on the mat.
Reacting to the team’s performance, President of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, expressed satisfaction with the athletes’ display. Attending his first African Championships as federation president, Adeniyi commended the wrestlers’ dedication and commitment.
It is a great moment for Nigeria here in Alexandria. Our national anthem was played four times out of five finals, which is a remarkable achievement. We are extremely proud of these athletes for flying the Nigerian flag high,” he said.
Adeniyi, who also serves as Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, dedicated the victories to the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, acknowledging her role in inspiring young Nigerian women to pursue excellence.
I congratulate Her Excellency for her continued inspiration to Nigerian women. These athletes exemplify what is possible when passion meets opportunity. I also congratulate all Nigerians on this achievement,” he added.
The championships continue on Saturday, with men’s freestyle events set to commence alongside ongoing women’s competitions.
