The 13th edition of the ECOWAS African Wrestling Tournament came to a close on Saturday at the Velodrome MKO Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, Nigeria.
The event was a spectacular showcase of traditional wrestling bouts and rich cultural displays from across West Africa.
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Senegal Emerges Overall Winner
Senegal took top honors, winning three gold medals and one silver. Nigeria secured second place with two gold medals and one silver, while Benin Republic finished third with one silver and one bronze.
Nigeria’s Female Wrestlers Shine
Nigeria’s second-place finish was largely due to the impressive performances of female wrestlers Ebipatei Lienbofa and Ebi Bigos.
They won gold medals in the women’s 66kg and 76kg categories, respectively.
National Sports Commission Chairman Praises Female Athletes
National Sports Commission Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko praised the female athletes, noting their significant contributions to Nigeria’s sporting achievements.
“Today is women’s day, and we are proud as a Commission and, indeed the entire country, of the doggedness and resilience of our female wrestlers in this tournament,” he said.
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ECOWAS Commissioner Urges Unity and Excellence
Commissioner for Human Development and Social Affairs ECOWAS Commission, Professor Fatou Sow Sarr, urged participants to carry forward the values of unity, resilience, and excellence celebrated during the event.
Prizes Awarded
The winners received cash prizes, with Senegal taking home $10,000, Nigeria receiving $6,000, and Benin getting $3,000.
Tournament Promotes Regional Integration and Youth Empowerment
The 13th ECOWAS African Wrestling Tournament was part of the ECOWAS 50th anniversary celebrations, promoting regional integration, youth empowerment, and cultural preservation.
