Nigerian Wrestling Trio Earn NCAA Division I Scholarships to Iowa State University

Posted : 27 July 2026

Three Nigerian female wrestlers have secured scholarship transfers to Iowa State University in the United States, marking a major milestone for the Nigeria Wrestling Federation's athlete development programme.

Kolawole Esther, Christinah Ogunsanya, and Adekoye Jumoke, who previously competed and studied at William Penn University, an NAIA institution, will now continue their academic and wrestling careers at Iowa State University, one of the United States' leading NCAA Division I programmes.

Reacting to the development, Head Coach of the Nigerian women's wrestling team, Akuh Purity, described the transfers as a significant achievement that highlights the growing international recognition of Nigerian wrestling.

According to him, competing in NCAA Division I offers the trio an opportunity to test themselves at the highest level of collegiate wrestling while pursuing a quality education.

Purity credited the success to the leadership of Nigeria Wrestling Federation President, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, whose continued investment in exposing Nigerian wrestlers to international competitions has created opportunities for athletes to attract global attention.

He explained that the wrestlers' consistent performances at major international events played a key role in catching the interest of recruiters from Iowa State University.

"This achievement is a testament to the vision and dedication of the President of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation. His financial investment and commitment to athlete development have showcased the immense talent of our wrestlers on the international stage. Seeing Kolawole Esther, Christinah Ogunsanya, and Adekoye Jumoke earn transfers to Iowa State University is a proud moment for Nigerian wrestling," Purity said.

The coach added that the athletes' success demonstrates what is possible when talented wrestlers receive the right support, structured development, and access to quality educational opportunities.

He expressed optimism that the achievement would inspire more young Nigerian wrestlers to pursue excellence both on the mat and in the classroom, while calling for sustained investment in grassroots development and elite athlete programmes.

The transfer of the three wrestlers to Iowa State University further underscores the Nigeria Wrestling Federation's efforts to create international pathways for its athletes and strengthen the country's reputation as a producer of world-class wrestling talent.

The successful scholarship transfers reflect the growing global recognition of Nigerian wrestling and provide further encouragement for aspiring athletes seeking to combine academic excellence with sporting achievement.

Nigerian Wrestling Trio Earn NCAA Division I Scholarships to Iowa State University

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