Nigeria Dominates African Youth Games In Angola

The National Sports Commission (NSC) has lauded the impressive victories and overwhelming dominance of Team Nigeria across various categories at the ongoing 4th African Youth Games in Luanda, Angola.

A statement signed by Dr. Kehinde Ajayi, director, Information and Public Relations, explained that medal table standings clearly reflect the Nigerian team’s winning spirit, resilience, and determination—attributes that have continued to make the leadership of the NSC, sports enthusiasts, and the nation at large proud.

On Day One of competition in the “Gold Dust” category, Team Nigeria made a strong statement with a medal sweep in weightlifting, securing a total of eight (8) gold medals and one silver.

In the 44kg category, Favour Cornelius thrilled the Nigerian contingent with an outstanding performance, clinching three gold medals after lifting 50kg in the snatch, 64kg in the clean and jerk, and recording a total of 114kg.

Also delivering an exceptional performance in the 48kg category was Esther Chidalu Ezenwa, who dominated the field with lifts of 63kg in the snatch and 77kg in the clean and jerk, recording a combined total of 140kg to emerge victorious.

In the 53kg category, Chinaza Cecilia Ezenwa sustained Nigeria’s winning streak by securing two gold medals and one silver. She lifted 65kg in the snatch, followed by an impressive 83kg in the clean and jerk to win gold, finishing with a total lift of 148kg. At the end of Day One of weightlifting events, Nigeria’s medal haul stood at eight gold medals and one silver.

Maintaining the trajectory of dominance, Abijuwon Farouk Olalekan delivered a commanding performance in boxing, defeating Ghana’s William Laryea to qualify for the final of the 50kg category.

In athletics, Team Nigeria continued to shine, winning six gold medals and five silver medals, further underlining the country’s bright future in the sport.

Expressing his delight at the outstanding performances, the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko, stated that “Nigeria has a rich sporting heritage. Across the globe, Nigerian athletes continue to exemplify our ‘can-do’ spirit, and this is who we are.

“What these young athletes are showcasing here speaks volumes about the passion and commitment behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises the holistic development of Nigeria’s sports sector by catching them young and promoting inclusivity.”

Mallam Dikko expressed optimism that the Commission’s ongoing reforms are already yielding positive results, noting that the NSC leadership remains committed to delivering a developmental quantum leap in sports by carrying all stakeholders along.

Also speaking, the Director-General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, commended the athletes for their remarkable performances and sustained dominance, stating:> “Our expectations from the outset were unmistakably high. Significant emphasis was placed on early preparations and intensive coaching. Thee performances clearly underscore our genuine investments in grassroots sports development and our commitment to ensuring Nigerian athletes excel across all disciplines.

“As a Commission, we have made notable strides, and we appreciate Mr President for his unwavering support in helping us achieve these milestones. Our topmost priority remains to catch them young, emphasise training and nurturing, and guide them to stardom and consistent podium finishes.”

According to Hon. Olopade, Nigeria has continued to establish itself as a dominant force at both local and international championships.

The Nigerian contingent was also on hand in high spirits, providing enthusiastic support that added colour and motivation to Team Nigeria’s performances throughout the games.