In a spectacular display of skill and determination, Nigerian boxers seized a remarkable eight gold medals at the African Games, marking a triumphant evening at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra. The cascade of victories commenced with Joy Ojo’s triumph in the 57kg women’s division, where she vanquished Algeria’s Selmouni Chahira with aplomb.
Dele Omole swiftly followed suit, securing a second gold for Nigeria in the 57kg category by overcoming Sigauque Amando of Mozambique. Patricia Mbata continued the nation’s golden streak, clinching victory in the 75kg women’s category with a resounding 4-0 win against Molka Ben Mabrouk of Tunisia.
Further augmenting Nigeria’s medal haul, Olaitan Olaore asserted dominance in the men’s 92kg event, dispatching Kevin Kuadjovi of Togo with a knockout blow. Yet, the night’s glory did not end there. Cynthia Ogunsemilore outclassed Egypt’s Rahma Mafouz Ibrahim in the women’s 60kg final, while Blessing Oraekwe secured gold in the 70kg category by besting Alcinda Lucas Dos Santos of Mozambique.
Meanwhile, Jacinta Umunnakwe emerged victorious in the women’s 81kg bout, outperforming DR Congo’s Marie Joel Nwika with her superior punching prowess. Ifeanyi Onyekwere delivered the coup de grâce by triumphing over his Equatorial Guinea adversary Yann Mike Mansogo in the men’s 92kg+ category, culminating in a historic achievement for Nigeria.
In the realm of athletics, Nigeria continued its reign of supremacy, capturing the women’s 4x400m relay title through the collective efforts of Esther Elo Joseph, Patience Okon-George, Brittany Ogunmokun, and Omolara Omotosho-Ogunmakinju. Maintaining their stronghold, the nation successfully defended its 2019 title in Accra.
Prosper Chinecherem Nnamdi delivered an exceptional performance in the men’s javelin event, securing gold with a remarkable throw of 82.80 meters, thereby establishing a national record. His victory marked the first time a Nigerian man claimed gold in javelin at the African Games since 1991. In total, Nigeria emerged as the undisputed leader in athletics, amassing a staggering 22 medals, including 11 gold, six silver, and five bronze. As the African Games draw to a close, Nigeria stands tall, adorned with the laurels of triumph.
