Yahaya Yahuza Muhamed’s rise at the Ogun 2024 National Sports Festival is no accident — it’s the result of grit, hunger, and unwavering determination.
The wrestler from Kogi State, competing for FCT Abuja, has now clinched two gold medals — first in Greco-Roman, and now in freestyle wrestling.
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In a raw and revealing chat with Sports247 after winning his second gold, Yahaya shared what fuels his performance:
“The hardship in this country has made me stronger. I use it as my weapon. Everyone is trying to survive, and for me, that means fighting hard — on and off the mat.”
His second gold came on Tuesday in the freestyle event, following an earlier triumph in Greco-Roman. But Yahaya isn’t done yet — he’s also registered to compete in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), aiming to add a third medal to his impressive festival run.
“I didn’t come here just to participate. I came to push myself,” he said. “This is more than sport for me. This is survival. It’s how I channel everything I’ve been through and turn it into strength.”
Yahaya’s story isn’t just about athletic excellence — it’s about resilience. His journey reflects the challenges many Nigerian youths face, and how sports can become a powerful outlet and opportunity.
As the mats continue to host fierce contests in Abeokuta, Yahaya Yahuza Muhamed stands out — not just as a champion, but as a fighter molded by circumstance and powered by belief.
