Nigeria’s Alade Ajibade Makes History With Africa’s First-Ever Medal in Blind Sambo

Posted : 10 November 2025

Nigeria’s Alade Ajibade has etched his name in history at the 2025 World Sambo Championships in Bishkek, Uzbekistan, becoming the first African athlete to win a medal in blind Sambo.

Competing in the men’s -98kg category on Saturday, Ajibade clinched bronze in his debut international appearance — a remarkable feat that marks a major milestone for adaptive sports across the continent.

Ajibade was the only medalist among Nigeria’s three-man contingent at the global event. His achievement was widely celebrated by Sheriff Hammed, Vice President of the Sambo Association of Nigeria, who hailed it as a defining moment for both the sport and African representation in the discipline.

“This achievement is truly historic and inspiring. It reflects not only the resilience of our athletes but also Africa’s growing recognition in adaptive sports,” Hammed said in a statement on Sunday.

“Winning this medal shows our commitment to inclusion, excellence, and development at every level. It proves that with support, our athletes can excel globally.”

In another major milestone, Nigeria was officially admitted as a full member of the International Sambo Federation (FIAS) during the body’s 37th Elective Congress.

Alongside Nigeria, Togo, the Maldives, the Central African SAMBO Federation, and the Sambo Union of Bosnia and Herzegovina were also granted full membership status following a vote by the delegates.

The Congress also saw the constitution of a new FIAS Executive Board to guide the federation’s activities and international development.

Hammed described Nigeria’s admission as a “turning point” for the sport’s growth in the country.

“Nigeria’s FIAS membership opens doors to international competitions, technical support, and training opportunities for coaches and referees.

Our athletes can now compete under the national flag with greater visibility and opportunity on the world stage,” he said.

He added that the recognition would enhance Nigeria’s sporting credibility, promote cultural exchange, and create pathways for youth development and sports diplomacy.

“Ultimately, this is a major step towards institutionalising Sambo in Nigeria and positioning the country as a leading force in Africa,” Hammed added.

FIAS President Vasily Shestakov, in his address to the Congress, highlighted the federation’s growing global influence, citing the debut of Combat Sambo in the upcoming World Games 2025 in Chengdu as one of its landmark achievements.

He also noted FIAS’ recognition by the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) and the inclusion of Sambo in the International Military Sports Council’s calendar, affirming the sport’s rising profile and inclusivity worldwide.

Nigeria’s Alade Ajibade Makes History With Africa’s First-Ever Medal in Blind Sambo

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