Nigeria’s National Women Wrestling team delivered an historic performance, clinching a record-extending 15th African women’s title at the African Wrestling Championships in Alexandria.
The Nigerian contingent topped the standings, finishing with eight gold medals and two silver medals from the 10 available events, yet another confirmation of their long-standing dominance in African wrestling.
Golden Wave: Nigeria’s Champions Lead the Charge
The campaign was built on a series of one-sided victories across multiple weight categories.
- Mercy Genesis set the tone early, overpowering Tunisia’s Chahrazed Ayachi 6-0 to spark Nigeria’s gold rush.
- Adijat Idris followed with a ruthless 8-0 win over Lobna Ichaoiu in the 55kg division.
- Esther Aseolu continued the dominance, thrashing Egypt’s Mariam Mosbeh 10-0.
Each victory dictated Nigeria’s technical superiority, strength, and tactical discipline on the mat.
Adekuoroye Caps Off Perfect Gold Sweep
The gold medal surge was emphatically sealed by wrestling icon Mercy Adekuoroye.
She delivered a dominant pinfall victory over Lec Hej Marlyne Ande of the Central African Republic in the 65kg category, completing Nigeria’s golden sweep in style.
Only Minor Setback in Women’s Division
Nigeria’s only blemish in the women’s competition came in the 72kg category.
Ebi Biogos initially led her bout but was eventually overpowered 6-2 by Tunisia’s Zaineb Sghaier, settling for silver.
Men’s Team Adds Strength to Nigeria’s Campaign
In the men’s freestyle division, Nigeria also made its mark.
- Harrison Onovwiomogbhwo delivered a standout performance, defeating Egypt’s Mohamed Mostafa 10-4 to win Nigeria’s only men’s gold medal.
Earlier:
- Ebierelayefa Andrew secured silver in the 74kg category
- Stephen Akintewe also claimed silver in the 65kg division
Both fell short against Egyptian opponents in their respective finals.
Bronze Contributions Seal Strong Overall Finish
Nigeria added further depth to their medal haul with three bronze medals:
- Dideikemei Erefagha
- Solomon Ulabo
- Saviour Egoli
Their podium finishes helped Nigeria’s men’s team secure third place overall.
Nigeria’s Wrestling Declares Continental Supremacy
With yet another successful outing at the African Wrestling Championships, Nigeria have once again underlined their status as Africa’s undisputed powerhouse in women’s wrestling.
- 8 Gold (Women)
- 2 Silver (Women)
- 1 Gold (Men)
- 2 Silver (Men)
- 3 Bronze (Men)
The latest triumph not only extends their record but also sends a strong message ahead of future global competitions.
From relentless dominance in the women’s division to solid contributions in the men’s events, Nigeria’s performance in Alexandria was a statement of continued supremacy.
Africa still belongs to Nigeria on the wrestling mat and the gap shows no signs of closing.
