Team Nigeria finished the Central African Wrestling Championship with five gold and one silver medal after competing in Brazzaville, Congo.
The tournament featured Freestyle, Beach Wrestling, and Women’s Wrestling categories, with Nigeria recording a strong performance.
Promise Otokoto, Media Assistant to the Nigeria Wrestling Federation (NWF), disclosed this on Monday in Lagos.
Otokoto said Team Nigeria opened the championship with three gold medals through outstanding performances.
“Team Nigeria started on the opening day by securing three gold medals,” he said.
Terry Godfrey won gold in the Men’s 65kg Freestyle category, while Andrew Woyinkorikiye triumphed in 53kg Women’s Wrestling.
“Andrew displayed Nigeria’s fighting spirit by clinching another gold medal,” Otokoto stated.
He added that Precillia Archbone won gold in the 45kg category.
“Precillia added Nigeria’s third gold medal, making it three victories from three events,” he said.
Nigeria continued its impressive run in Beach Wrestling with two more gold medals.
“Andrew Woyinkorikiye and Precillia Archbone won gold, while Terry Godfrey settled for silver,” Otokoto added.
The federation’s aide said Nigeria finished third overall, behind DR Congo and Congo Brazzaville.
He explained that the final ranking was influenced by the number of athletes registered.
Otokoto said Nigeria’s participation reflected the NWF’s renewed focus on talent development.
Meanwhile, NWF president, Adewale Adeniyi, said he prioritised grassroots growth through international competitions.
Adeniyi, who is also the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, reaffirmed his support for the initiative.
He stressed the importance of wrestlers adapting quickly to new opponents and environments.
“International competitions expose athletes to diverse styles, tactics, and higher physical demands,” he said.
According to him, success abroad encourages young athletes to pursue excellence in wrestling.
“Winning inspires the next generation of youths to work harder,” Adeniyi stated.
He said international exposure broadens cultural understanding and creates professional opportunities.
“It provides visibility to scouts and establishes pathways for future success,” he added.
Adeniyi described global competitions as a strategy for athlete development and funding.
The Nigerian delegation included three wrestlers, coach Kingkuro Oyinbrakemi Tangi, and NWF Assistant Secretary Abigail Ibrahim.