Blind Nigerian Athletes Make History Ahead of World Cup in Armenia
By Valentine Uchechukwu Ndukwu
Two blind Nigerian female athletes are set to make history as they prepare to compete in the 2026 Sambo World Cup in Armenia on April 11 and 12.
This will be the first time female blind athletes from Africa will compete in the tournament. The athletes, Taiwo and Aseso, will represent Nigeria in the Blind Sambo category, a special part of the competition designed for visually impaired fighters.
Their coach, Sherifat Akintunde, will lead the team as they compete against athletes from around the world. Their participation shows that the sport is becoming more open to people with disabilities and that Nigeria is helping lead the way in Africa.
This achievement follows earlier success by Nigerian blind sambists. In 2024, Samuel Oladele Kekere became the first blind Nigerian and African to compete at the World Cup. Then in 2025, Sodiq Ajibade won Africa’s first medal in the event, taking home bronze.
Now, Taiwo and Aseso hope to continue that success. Taiwo, who is a Lagos champion in the 54kg category, said she is grateful for the chance to represent Nigeria and hopes to return home with a gold medal.
Sherif Hammed, Vice President of the Nigeria Sambo Association, described the moment as a major achievement for Nigeria and Africa. He said it proves the country is serious about supporting all athletes, including those with special needs.
Supporters have also praised the athletes, saying they are proud of them and hopeful they will bring home medals. Many believe this moment will encourage more Nigerians to support athletes with disabilities.
The 2026 Sambo World Cup will take place in Yerevan, Armenia, at the Gazprom Training and Sports Complex.
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