Adeniyi urges wrestlers to fly Nigeria’s flag in victory at African Championships
The President of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation (NWF), Dr Bashir Adewale Adeniyi , has charged Team Nigeria to defend the country’s dominance on the continent as the contingent departed for
The President of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation (NWF), Dr Bashir Adewale Adeniyi , has charged Team Nigeria to defend the country's dominance on the continent as the contingent departed for the 2026 African Wrestling Championships in Alexandria, Egypt.
The team left the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, yesterday as the event is scheduled for April 27 to May 2, and will compete across U17, U20 and Senior categories.
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The contingent — comprising 10 female wrestlers and eight male wrestlers — will contest 18 categories at the championships.
Addressing the athletes before departure, Adeniyi, who also serves as the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, urged the team to build on the country's record-breaking success in the women's division, which Nigeria has won 14 times — the most titles the country has claimed in any continental sporting championship.
"I want to appreciate all of you for the discipline and dedication you exhibited during your stay in camp. That is the spirit you have to showcase in Egypt," Adeniyi said. "Heading into this championship, we are the current women's champions, and we have to try our best to bring the title home for the 15th time."
The NWF president reminded the athletes of their status as national ambassadors and called on them to maintain a high standard of conduct throughout the competition.
"Continue to believe in yourselves, do your best, and maintain a high level of discipline to make the country proud. We implore you to ensure that Nigeria's flag is hoisted in Alexandria victoriously."
TEAM NIGERIA — 2026 AFRICAN WRESTLING CHAMPIONSHIPS
Female:
1. Genesis Mercy Miesinnei — 50kg
2. Ogunsanya Christianah Tolulope — 53kg
3. Idris Adijat Avorshai — 55kg
4. Adekoye Jumoke Bukola — 57kg
5. Asaolu Esther Olamide — 59kg
6. Kolawole Esther — 62kg
7. Adekuoroye Mercy — 65kg
8. Reuben Hannah — 68kg
9. Biogos Ebi — 72kg
10. Ojo Damola Hannah — 76kg
Male:
11. Egoli Saviour — 61kg
12. Akintewe Stephen Tope — 65kg
13. Erefagha Didekemei — 70kg
14. Andrew Ebierelayefa Allison — 74kg
15. Ulabo Solomon — 79kg
16. Eseimokumoh Gooddy Oyeme — 86kg
17. Newlife Ebikeme Oyobi — 92kg
18. Onovwiomogbhwo Harrison — 97kg
Coaches:
19. Akuh Purity
20. Blessing Oborududu
21. Agberekeme Areh
Referees:
22. Yusuf Usman
23. Adebiyi Anthony
Officials:
24. Bashir Adewale Adeniyi (President)
25. Amkpila Christopher (Vice-President)
26. Daniel Baraladei Igali (UWW Member)
27. Ademisoro Oluwasegun Bode (Secretary-General)
