In the world of female wrestling, Africa boasts an array of formidable champions whose prowess transcends borders. Among them, six Nigerian women have etched their names in history by clinching all gold medals in their respective weight categories at the 13th African Games in Ghana. PUNCH Sports Extra’s PETER AKINBO writes on the remarkable journeys of these wrestling mavens redefining the sport through their grit, determination, and unmatched skill
Blessing Oborududu
With a commanding presence on the wrestling mat, Blessing Oborududu stands as a towering figure in Nigerian wrestling. Hailing from the Delta State, Oborududu’s journey in wrestling is nothing short of inspiring. Her unparalleled technique, coupled with an indomitable spirit, has propelled her to numerous victories on the international stage.
A force to be reckoned with, the 34-year-old has demonstrated exceptional skill and determination on the wrestling mat claiming gold medals at African Taekwondo Championships, and Commonwealth Games, and a silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics. Her gold medal at the African Games in Ghana is her third gold medal previously claiming gold in 2015 and 2019.
Odunayo Adekuoroye
From the tranquil hills of Ondo State emerges Odunayo Adekuoroye, a titan of strength and resilience in the realm of wrestling.
With a storied career punctuated by triumphs and accolades, Adekuoroye has etched her name in the annals of African wrestling history with gold medals at the African Taekwondo Championships and Commonwealth Games including winning silver and bronze medals at the World Taekwondo Championships.
Like Oborududu, Adekuoroye also won her third African Games gold medal on Sunday in Ghana.
Her journey from humble beginnings to the summit of athletic excellence serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for young athletes across the continent. The 30-year-old is yet to claim an Olympic medal and is keen to change that this year having already secured qualification for the Paris Olympics.
Mercy Genesis
In the heart of Rivers State rises Mercy Genesis, a shining star that claimed Nigeria’s first wrestling gold medal at the African Games to open the floodgates in the 50kg event.
With a blend of precision, agility, and unwavering determination, Genesis has risen to prominence on the wrestling mat, as she claimed her second African Games gold medal having previously won in 2015.
Genesis’s tenacity and resilience have propelled her to the top of the podium in her weight class. At the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, the 26-year-old claimed a gold medal and she also has an African Wrestling Championships gold to her name.
Christiana Ogunsanya
Hailing from the bustling metropolis of Lagos State, Christiana Ogunsanya has introduced herself as a formidable force in the world of African wrestling.
With a relentless pursuit of excellence, Ogunsanya making her African Games debut in Ghana clinched Nigeria’s second wrestling gold medal in the 53kg weight class.
Ogunsanya’s precision and strength have secured her a place among the elite female wrestlers and her gold medal achievement is a testament to her commitment and potential.
Hannah Reuben
From Plateau State, Hannah Reuben emerges as a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring wrestlers especially those in the military across Africa. With a career defined by dedication, Reuben has become a household name in wrestling claiming gold medals at the African Games and World Military Wrestling Championship.
After claiming a gold medal in the 73kg event at the 13th African Games, Reuben is eager to also earn a qualification for the Paris Olympic Games and is hopeful of a podium finish.
Esther Kolawole
Another African Games debutat, Esther Kolawole is a rising star in the world of African wrestling at 22 years old.
Kolawole has carved her path to success on the wrestling mat, first claiming African Youth Games and National Sports Festival gold medals in 2018. Boasting of an African Wrestling Championships gold medal won in 2020, Kolawole’s unwavering focus have led her to the pinnacle of success.
Kolawole also won a bronze medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games and silver at the 2023 African Championships. Her gold medal win in the 62kg event in Ghana is definitely a first of many African Games gold medals to come.
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