Alexandria: Nigeria wrestling team on Saturday won the 15th African Wrestling Championships after emerging overall winners in the women’s category of the African Wrestling Championships in Alexandria, Egypt.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Nigeria clinched the title for a record 15th time by winning a total of eight gold and two silver medals out of 10 available medals. Nigeria’s athletes showcased their dominance on the mat, affirming their position as a powerhouse in African women’s wrestling.
In the men’s category, Andrew Ebierelayefa faced a tough challenge, losing to Omar Mohamed of Egypt by pinfall in the 74kg class. Similarly, Stephen Akintewe competed in the 65kg category and settled for silver after missing out to Egypt’s Shehabeldin Emam.
However, there were triumphs for Nigeria in other matches. Dideikemei Erefagha delivered a commanding performance to beat Elie Djekoundakom of Chad 12-0 in the 70kg category. Solomon Ulabo also secured a win by defeating Madagascar’s Totiana Razafinjato 6-0 by pinfall in the 79kg category, both earning bronze medals.
In another successful match for Nigeria, Saviour Egoli triumphed in the 61kg category with a technical 5-5 scoreline against Mustapha Batinini of Tunisia, securing another bronze medal. These victories contributed to the men’s overall third-place finish in the tournament, resulting in a podium finish.
NAN reports that the team, comprising 10 female and eight male wrestlers, competed across 18 events. The 2026 African Wrestling Championships, which commenced on April 27, concludes today in Alexandria, Egypt.