Tinubu hails team Nigeria on record 15th African wrestling title

President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Team Nigeria on its performance at the 2026 African Wrestling Championships in Alexandria, Egypt, where the country secured a record 15th continental title.

In a statement issued on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President described the victory as a reflection of consistency, discipline and national pride.

He noted that Nigeria’s wrestlers had once again demonstrated their dominance on the African continent.

“With 8 gold and 2 silver medals from 10 events in the women’s division, and an overall tally of 9 gold, 4 silver, and 3 bronze medals across categories, the result reflects both excellence at the top and strength in depth across the team,” the statement read.

Tinubu paid tribute to Mercy Genesis, Adijat Idris, Esther Asaolu and Mercy Adekuoroye for their performances, which he said combined skill with composure.

He also commended Harrison Onovwiomogbhwo for his victory in the men’s freestyle category.

The President further acknowledged the contributions of Ebierelayefa Andrew, Stephen Akintewe, Dideikemei Erefagha, Solomon Ulabo and Saviour Egoli, noting that championships are won through collective effort.

He said the outcome reflected improvements in Nigeria’s sports ecosystem, with increased focus on structure, preparation and long-term athlete development.

“This is how a sporting nation grows, not by accident, not by chance, but by design. By building systems that identify talent early, nurture it patiently, and prepare it deliberately for moments like this,” Tinubu said.

He added that the performance in Alexandria highlighted an emerging pipeline of athletes being prepared for higher levels of competition.

Tinubu also commended the Nigeria Wrestling Federation, led by its President, Bashir Adeniyi, for sustaining Nigeria’s continental leadership in the sport.

“Our athletes remind us of what is possible when focus meets preparation. They compete as individuals, but they win as Nigeria,” he said.

The President urged the team to remain disciplined and continue to represent the country well in future competitions.