NAIROBI, KENYA — Team Nigeria has delivered a spectacular performance at the African Elite Men’s and Women’s Boxing Championships 2026 in Nairobi, Kenya, claiming three gold medals and one silver through its female boxers in a remarkable turnaround from the disappointing results recorded earlier in the competition.
Leading Nigeria’s golden charge was Ajishola Khadijat, who secured the country’s first gold medal with a commanding 5–0 unanimous decision victory over Algeria’s Malak Noir E in the women’s 51–54kg category.
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Her impressive performance set the tone for an unforgettable outing for the Nigerian contingent.
The celebration continued when Precious Anine defeated another Algerian opponent, Benane Djouher, in the women’s 60–65kg final to claim Nigeria’s second gold medal.
However, the most explosive performance came from Team Nigeria captain Blessing Orakwe, who produced a sensational first-round knockout against Kenya’s Akinyi Elizabeth in the women’s 75–80kg category.
The emphatic victory delivered Nigeria’s third gold medal and reinforced Orakwe’s earlier declaration that she had returned to continental boxing with serious ambitions.
Before the final, the determined captain had warned that she was not in Nairobi to joke, promising to overcome anyone standing between her and championship glory.
Meanwhile, Patricia Mbata narrowly missed out on another gold medal after suffering a close 3–2 points defeat against Egypt’s Aboelfead Nabila in the women’s 70–75kg final, earning Nigeria a silver medal.
The medal haul represents a remarkable recovery for a Nigerian team that had earlier endured five defeats, including controversial decisions that generated concern among spectators.
The achievement also reflects the determination of the coaching crew, including Cross River State head coach Mary Obo Ekpo, who had confidently predicted that Nigeria would return home with multiple medals.
Her words have now become reality.
For Nigeria Boxing Federation President Adebayo Olawale Edun, Vice President Omonlei Yakubu Imadu, and the entire delegation, the success offers encouragement for the future of Nigerian boxing.
With three gold medals and one silver already secured, Nigeria’s campaign has demonstrated the resilience of its female fighters.
From early disappointment to continental glory, Nigeria’s women have delivered a powerful statement in Nairobi — and the nation’s boxing pride is shining once again.
