Nigeria sends first female blind sambists to World Sambo Cup
Two of Nigeria’s female blind sambists, Rukayat Taiwo and Elizabeth Aseso, departed Lagos aboard Turkish Airlines on Tuesday, April 7, for their historic debut at the World Sambo Cup in
Two of Nigeria's female blind sambists, Rukayat Taiwo and Elizabeth Aseso, departed Lagos aboard Turkish Airlines on Tuesday, April 7, for their historic debut at the World Sambo Cup in Yerevan, Armenia. The competition, scheduled for April 11–12, marks the first time Africa will present female blind sambists at a world title tournament.
Led by coach Sherifat Akintunde, the Nigerian contingent will compete in the Blind Sambo discipline — one of three categories at the World Cup alongside Sport Sambo and Combat Sambo. Their participation underscores the sport's growing inclusivity and Nigeria's pioneering role in opening doors for athletes with visual impairments.
The appearance builds on a trail of breakthroughs. In 2024, Samuel Oladele Kekere became the first Nigerian and African blind sambist to compete at the World Cup. A year later, Sodiq Ajibade claimed the continent's first medal — a bronze — at the 2025 edition. Now Taiwo, a Lagos State champion in the 54 kg category, and Aseso, competing in the 59 kg category, carry the hopes of Nigeria and Africa into the global arena.
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Sherif Hammed, Vice-President of the Nigeria Sambo Association, described the occasion as historic, emphasising that Nigeria's commitment to inclusivity extends beyond medals to supporting Sambo's bid for inclusion in the 2028 Olympic Games.
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"This is a milestone opportunity — introducing the first female athletes not just in Nigeria, but in Africa," Hammed said. "It's huge for Lagos, Nigeria, and Africa at large."
For Taiwo, the debut carries deep personal significance. "I thank God for the grace to represent Nigeria at international events," she said. "I believe God will crown my efforts and I will return with gold."
Titilola Osho, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Public Works, added her voice to the chorus of optimism. "I feel very optimistic. I trust the athletes because they are ready, and I believe we are going to get medals — gold this time. Special athletes need more support, and I hope this inspires Nigerians to rally behind them."
The 2026 World Cup will be held at the Gazprom Training and Sports Complex in Yerevan. Classification for visually impaired athletes begins today.
