Nigeria’s men’s and women’s wheelchair basketball teams have advanced to the semifinals of the 2026 Commonwealth Games 3×3 qualifiers in Angola after determined performances on Wednesday, March 25.
In the men’s category, Nigeria staged a comeback to edge Kenya 7-6 in their opening game before delivering a commanding 14-2 victory over Gambia in their second match. However, they fell 10-5 to South Africa in their final group fixture, finishing strong enough to book a semifinal clash against Kenya.
Head coach Taye Sofolahan praised his team’s resilience and commitment, especially in the face of doubts from opponents.
Sofolahan said, “I want to commend the players for giving their best during the group stage, especially against Kenya. The boys found their rhythm and stunned the East African side.
“We had already been downplayed by our opponents for reasons best known to them, but the men’s team did not disappoint.”
He also lauded the efforts of Oluwaseyi Johnson, President of Nigeria Wheelchair Basketball, for ensuring the team’s participation at the qualifiers.
Johnson, who also serves as Chairperson of the IWBF West Africa Zone, charged the players to stay focused on securing a place at the Commonwealth Games.
Johnson said, “I believe in the capacity of the players and coaching crew. My message to the team is simple: qualify for the 2026 Commonwealth Games and put Nigeria on the map in Africa.”
In the women’s event, Nigeria opened with a 4-2 loss to South Africa but bounced back strongly with an emphatic 8-0 win over Kenya to seal a semifinal spot. They will also face Kenya in the last four as both teams continue their push for qualification.
