Olympics silver medalist Blessing Oborodudu and world champion Odunayo Adekuoroye sparked Team Nigeria’s gold rush in the women freestyle wrestling at the ongoing 13th All African Games in Ghana yesterday.
The Nigerian women freestyle wrestlers were in total control of the event, winning six gold medals out of possible six that were at stake
Reuben Hannah in the 76KG, Ogunsanya Christiana in the 53KG, Genesis Miesinnei in the 50KG, Oburududu Blessing in the 68KG, Kolawole Esther in the 62KG and Odunayo Adekuoroye in the 57KG all returned with gold medals to put Nigeria at the top of the wrestling rankings.
President of Nigeria Wrestling Federation (NWF), Dr. Daniel Igali, applauded the sensational performance of Team Nigeria’s female wrestlers, described their feats as incredible.
“I’ve been very impress with the way they wrestled and I think if they continue in that trajectory, Nigeria should be hopeful of many gold medals,” Igali stated.
“I thank Nigerians particularly the Bayelsa State government for always supporting our activities and we hope to make everyone proud later when the final matches resume.”
Daniel Igali also used the medium to commend president Bola Tinubu for rewarding hard work of sportmen and wished that, that gesture is extended to those who would be making the country proud at the African Games.
“The President has set a precedence of rewarding silver medalists and gold flats and other encouragements necessary because that’s what he did with the Super Eagles at AFCON and I hope that would be extended.”
“I’m happy that these wrestlers are now eligible for such gesture which will serve as more motivation for other athletes across the country.”
The final matches for the female wrestling event will resume at 5pm Ghanaian time and 6pm Nigerian time.
