Nigeria’s para-taekwondo star, Ability Mathew Udom, has emerged as the highest-ranked athlete in Africa in the K44 57kg category after winning a gold medal at the ongoing African Taekwondo Championship in Bamako, Mali.
Udom’s outstanding performance further strengthened Nigeria’s medal haul at the continental championship, which has attracted competitors from 35 countries across Africa.
In addition to Udom’s gold medal triumph, Nigeria recorded more successes as Joel Jordan secured a bronze medal in the heavyweight category, while Chidima also clinched a bronze medal in her respective event.
Speaking with journalists on Tuesday, the President of the Taekwondo Federation of Nigeria, Mrs. Tayo Popoola, expressed satisfaction with the performances of the Nigerian contingent and optimism about the country’s chances of winning more medals, particularly in the Poomsae events.
According to her, the federation invested significant efforts in preparing the athletes for the championship, adding that the team remains focused on achieving greater success.
“We have 35 countries participating in this championship, and our athletes have shown remarkable determination and resilience. We are hopeful of winning more medals, especially in the Poomsae events, which we prepared extensively for,” she said.
Popoola noted that many participating nations arrived in Mali with highly experienced athletes who have featured in major international competitions, but maintained confidence in the Nigerian team’s ability to compete at the highest level.
“Other countries came with their best athletes who have participated in bigger events, but I am optimistic that our athletes are up to the task and ready to make the country proud,” she added.
Nigeria’s impressive showing at the championship is expected to boost the country’s profile in African taekwondo and further strengthen its quest for continental dominance in both para-taekwondo and conventional events.
