By Ikugbadi Oluwasegun
At the 36th World Military Wrestling Championship in Baku, Azerbaijan, the Nigerian Military Wrestlers showcased their prowess, securing impressive victories. On Friday, December 1st, 2023, the team seized both gold and silver medals, marking a significant achievement on the global stage.
Their exceptional performance illuminated the tournament, highlighting the skill and dedication of the Nigerian contingent amidst tough competition from around the world. This triumph underscores Nigeria’s presence and competitiveness in the realm of international military wrestling, bringing pride and recognition to the nation.
According to a statement issued on Sunday by Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence and Information, He said, “The feet was achieved by female wrestler, Corporal Hannah Reuben who beat her Italian contender in the 68 weight category of women’s freestyle wrestling to lift the gold medal.
The Armed Forces of Nigeria wrestling team made an indelible mark on the global stage, setting a record and garnering widespread acclaim. The medal was presented to Cpl Reuben by Mr. Dirk Shwede, Vice President of the International Military Sports Council (CISM).
It could be recalled that this is the first time the Armed Forces of Nigeria is securing a gold medal since participating at the CISM World Wrestling Championship. Another commendable performance was by Lance Corporal Ojolaide Esther who got silver medal in the 72 weight earlier at the event.
Major General Emmanuel Onumajuru, Chief of Defence Training and Operations, who represented General Christopher Gwabin Musa, Chief of Defence Staff, and Air Vice Marshal Abidemi Timothy Marquis, Director of Sports, Defence Headquarters were present to witness the glory. The senior officers respectively maintained that the historic victory wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering support of Gen CG Musa OFR, Chief of Defence Staff acknowledging his crucial role in the team’s success.