Nigerian Olympic silver medalist and 12-time African champion, Blessing Oborodudu, is set to retire from wrestling as the event kicks off at the 2025 National Sports Festival in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
Oborodudu, whose journey began at the 2006 Gateway Games as a secondary school student, returns to where it all started—this time for her final appearance on the mat.
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The veteran wrestler announced that she will officially retire at this edition of the festival, marking the end of a storied career spanning nearly two decades.
Her breakout moment came in 2007 when she was invited to the national camp following standout performances at inter-house school competitions.
Despite initial objections from her parents—who believed wrestling was meant only for boys—Oborodudu pressed on, inspired by Canadian-Nigerian Olympic gold medalist Daniel Igali.
Although she lost her debut bout at the 2006 Festival, Oborodudu went on to dominate the sport, winning gold in every subsequent edition she participated in: Kaduna 2009, Rivers 2011, Lagos 2012, Abuja 2018, Edo 2021, and Delta 2022.
As she prepares to take her final bow at Obafemi Awolowo Square in Ikenne on Wednesday, the wrestling world celebrates a legend who helped raise the profile of Nigerian wrestling both at home and internationally.
Her dedication, resilience, and achievements have left a lasting legacy that will be remembered for years to come.
Wrestling officially begins on Monday at the festival, with various states eyeing spots on the podium.
But all eyes will be on Blessing Oborodudu, as fans and sports lovers are urged to give her a rousing ovation for her immeasurable contributions to Nigerian sports
