The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Grassroots Sports Development, Hon. Adeyinka Anthony Adeboye, has applauded Team Nigeria for a resilient and impressive outing at the 15th African Armwrestling Championship in Accra, Ghana, where the country finished third overall with a remarkable medal haul.
Nigeria ended the championship with 16 gold, 9 silver, and 13 bronze medals, showcasing strength, depth, and consistency across multiple categories in a highly competitive continental field.
Reacting to the performance, Adeboye—who served as LOC Chairman during the historic Abuja 2025 championship where Nigeria emerged first overall—commended the athletes for their determination and fighting spirit.
“I am proud of our athletes. To finish third in a championship of this level, with 16 gold medals, shows the strength and potential we have as a nation in armwrestling.”
The SSA noted that Team Nigeria’s strong start, particularly on Day One where they dominated with multiple gold medals and secured several final placements, set the tone for an encouraging overall performance.
“They showed character, they showed quality, and most importantly, they showed that Nigeria remains a force in African armwrestling.”
Adeboye, however, emphasized that while the result is commendable, the focus must now shift to greater achievements ahead of the 2027 African Games in Cairo, Egypt, for which the championship served as a qualifier.
“This is a good result, but we must remain focused. Accra was about qualification—now the real work begins as we prepare for Cairo. We must aim higher.”
He also highlighted the importance of sustained support, preparation, and investment in athletes to maintain Nigeria’s competitive edge on the continent.
“We cannot relax. Other nations are investing and improving, and we must continue to support our athletes with the right structure, exposure, and preparation.”
The SSA praised standout performers who delivered multiple medals, including Afeniforo Adefunke, who led the gold medal tally with four gold medals, alongside other athletes who contributed significantly to Nigeria’s success.
“These athletes have made the country proud. Their commitment and hard work are commendable, and they deserve recognition and continued support.”
Adeboye further noted that the successful qualification of several Nigerian athletes for the African Games is a major positive outcome from the championship.
“The most important thing is that we have secured qualification spots. That gives us a strong foundation to build a formidable team for Cairo.”
Looking ahead, he expressed confidence that Nigeria can return stronger and aim for the top position in future competitions.
“We have the talent, we have the capacity, and with the right preparation, we can reclaim our place at the top. This is just another step in our journey.”
As attention shifts to the African Games in Cairo 2027, the message from the SSA is clear—
Nigeria has shown its strength, but the mission for dominance is far from over.
