Team Nigeria delivered a stellar performance at the 2024 African Wrestling Championships in Casablanca, Morocco, finishing second overall behind Egypt. The Nigerian contingent clinched 12 medals—10 gold, one silver, and one bronze—showcasing dominance, particularly in the women’s freestyle category.
The women’s team was the tournament’s highlight, winning nine out of the 10 gold medals available. Champions included Mercy Genesis (50kg), Christianah Ogunsanya (53kg), Adijat Idris (55kg), Jumoke Adekoye (59kg), Esther Kolawole (62kg), Ebipatei Mughenbofa (65kg), Hannah Rueben (68kg), Ebi Biogos (72kg), and Damola Ojo (76kg). The only women’s freestyle gold Nigeria did not claim went to Algeria’s Chaimaa Aouissi in the 57kg event.
In the men’s division, Stephen Izolo earned Nigeria’s sole gold in the 65kg freestyle, while Tope Adebayo secured bronze in the 70kg category. Ebikeme Newlife added a silver in the 92kg class.
Egypt topped the overall medal table with 24 medals, including 11 gold, eight silver, and five bronze. Nigeria did not compete in the junior (U-20) or cadet (U-17) categories.
The strong showing solidifies Nigeria’s status as a continental wrestling powerhouse.
