Nigeria’s taekwondo contingent has arrived in Bamako, Mali, ahead of the African Taekwondo Championships, where the athletes will compete for continental honours across multiple categories.
The Nigerian delegation comprises 11 athletes and two coaches, all set to represent the country in Kyorugi, Poomsae, Pair Poomsae, Freestyle Poomsae, and Para Taekwondo events.
The team landed in the West African nation in high spirits as preparations intensify for the prestigious championship.
Among the athletes expected to lead Nigeria’s medal challenge are Salawudeen Abdulafeez, who will compete in the Kyorugi (-63kg), Under-30 Male Poomsae and Pair Poomsae events, and Aderibigbe Faridah, who will feature in Kyorugi (-53kg), Pair Poomsae and Freestyle Poomsae.
Para Taekwondo competitors Faster Bakare, Samson Ukpera, and Ability Matthew Udo will also be aiming to secure podium finishes for Nigeria.
Team Nigeria Squad for African Taekwondo Championships
Salawudeen Abdulafeez – Kyorugi (-63kg), Under-30 Male Poomsae, Pair Poomsae
Faster Bakare – Para (-70kg)
Aderibigbe Faridah – Kyorugi (-53kg), Pair Poomsae, Freestyle Poomsae
Abeeblahi Oladimeji – Kyorugi (-54kg)
Jordan Joel – Kyorugi (+87kg)
Faisal Hamidu – Kyorugi (-68kg)
Harun Usman – Under-40 Male Poomsae
Abogun Modinat – Kyorugi (-46kg)
Samson Ukpera – Para (80kg)
Ability Matthew Udo – Para (-57kg)
Chidinma Okoko – Kyorugi (-62kg)
Coaches
John Victor
Santos Akhilele
The Nigerian contingent will be hoping to deliver strong performances in Bamako as they seek to enhance the country’s reputation as one of Africa’s emerging forces in taekwondo.
