Nigeria’s national women’s wrestling team achieved a remarkable feat at the African Wrestling Championships held in Alexandria, securing a record-extending 15th title in women’s wrestling on the continent.
With an impressive haul of eight gold medals and two silver medals across ten events, the Nigerian team underscored its longstanding dominance in African wrestling.
Golden Wave: Nigeria’s Champions Take the Lead
The tournament showcased a series of commanding victories for Nigeria across multiple weight classes.
Mercy Genesis set the tone with a decisive 6-0 win against Tunisia’s Chafrazd Ayachi, which ignited a ‘gold rush’ for the Nigerian team. Adijat Idris followed suit, delivering a ruthless 8-0 victory over Lobna Ichaoiu in the 55kg category, while Esther Assol continued the momentum with a dominant 10-0 win against Egypt’s Mariam Mosbeh.
These victories highlighted Nigeria’s technical superiority, strength, and tactical discipline on the wrestling mat.
Adekwo Oroe Achieves Perfect Gold Sweep
The surge of gold medals was capped off by wrestling icon Mercy Adekoloye, who secured her victory with a decisive pinfall over Lek Hage Merlin Ande from the Central African Republic in the 65kg weight class, completing a perfect sweep for Nigeria.
Only a Slight Setback in the Women’s Division
The only hiccup in Nigeria’s women’s competition came in the 72kg weight class, where Ebi Biogos initially led her match but ultimately succumbed to Tunisia’s Zaineb Sugayer, finishing with a silver medal.
Men’s Team Adds Strength to Nigeria’s Campaign
Nigeria’s performance wasn’t limited to the women’s events; the men’s freestyle category also showcased talent. Harrison Onofwi-Omogbuwo delivered a standout performance, defeating Egypt’s Mohamed Mostafa 10-4 to secure Nigeria’s sole men’s gold medal.
In addition to his victory, Ebieleraefa Andrew and Stephen Akintewe each clinched silver medals in the 74kg and 65kg categories, respectively, both falling short against their Egyptian rivals in the finals.
The Overall Finish Proves Strong with Bronze Contributions
Nigeria’s medal tally was further bolstered by three bronze medals, thanks to Didikemei Elefaga and Solomon Urabo, among others, leading the Nigerian men’s team to an overall third-place finish in the competition.
Nigerian Wrestling Declares Continental Supremacy
With this victory at the African Wrestling Championships, Nigeria has once again asserted its status as the leading power in women’s wrestling on the continent.
The final tally included 8 golds, 2 silvers, and 3 bronzes from the men’s events: a clear demonstration of Nigeria’s unmatched prowess. This success not only enhances its record but sends a resounding message ahead of future world championships. From stellar performances in the women’s division to substantial contributions in the men’s events, Nigeria’s display in Alexandria reaffirmed its longstanding dominance in African wrestling.
