Nigeria targets historic 15th women’s title as 18 wrestlers storm Egypt

Posted : 30 April 2026

Nigeria is eyeing another milestone on the continental wrestling stage as an 18-member squad has arrived in Alexandria, Egypt, for the 2026 African Wrestling Championships, with a firm focus on extending its dominance, particularly in the women’s division.

The delegation, made up of 10 female and 8 male wrestlers, departed the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, ahead of the tournament scheduled from April 27 to May 2.

The competition will feature U17, U20, and Senior categories, offering a broad platform for emerging and elite talents across Africa.

At the heart of Nigeria’s campaign is a bold ambition to clinch a record-extending 15th women’s team title. The country’s female wrestlers have long been the standard-bearers on the continent, having already secured the championship crown 14 times.

President of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, expressed confidence in the team’s preparedness and mindset, emphasizing discipline and belief as key ingredients for success.

He urged the athletes to carry forward the momentum built during their training camp and to approach the championships with determination and national pride.

“You have shown commendable discipline and dedication in camp. That same spirit must reflect on the mat in Egypt,” Adeniyi charged.

“As defending champions in the women’s category, the expectation is clear—go all out and bring the title home once again. Represent Nigeria with pride and ensure the flag flies high in victory.”

The team will compete across 18 weight categories, with a blend of experienced wrestlers and rising prospects expected to deliver strong performances.

Among the female wrestlers are notable names such as Mercy Adekuoroye (65kg), Esther Kolawole (62kg), and Christianah Ogunsanya (53kg), while the male contingent includes Andrew Allison (74kg), Stephen Akintewe (65kg), and Harrison Onovwiomogbhwo (97kg).

Supporting the athletes is a technical crew led by coaches Akuh Purity, Blessing Oborududu, and Agberekeme Areh, alongside referees Yusuf Usman and Adebiyi Anthony.

The administrative team includes Vice President Christopher Amkpila, UWW board member Daniel Igali, and Secretary General Ademisoro Bode.

With expectations high and history within reach, Team Nigeria steps onto the mats in Alexandria determined not just to compete—but to reaffirm its status as a wrestling powerhouse in Africa.

The upcoming tournament represents a vital opportunity for Nigeria to cement its legacy of excellence and inspire a new generation of wrestlers on the world stage. Through teamwork and tactical brilliance, the squad remains poised to uphold the nation's reputation and return with the coveted continental silverware.

Nigeria targets historic 15th women’s title as 18 wrestlers storm Egypt

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