Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Tunde Eludini
Published on 2024-03-24 06:56:45
The 13th African Games in Accra, Ghana, concluded with Team Nigeria securing a second-place finish in the final medal table, with a total of 120 medals (47 gold, 33 silver, and 40 bronze). Despite a lower overall medal count compared to the previous games in Morocco, Nigeria saw a slight increase in gold medals, especially in weightlifting where the team amassed 16 gold medals along with 10 silver and 6 bronze.
Athletes like Adijat Olarinoye, Rafiatu Lawal, and Edidiong Umoafia achieved outstanding performances in the weightlifting categories, each winning multiple gold medals. Athletics also played a significant role in Nigeria’s success, delivering 11 gold medals and witnessing historic performances from athletes like Tobi Amusan, Ese Brume, Chidi Okezie, Chukwuebuka Enekwechi, and Chinecherem Nnamdi.
Nigeria’s dominance extended to the relay races, with the team winning most of the events, including the Mixed Relay with an African Record, and the men’s and women’s 4x100m races. The women’s 4x400m relay team continued their remarkable legacy by securing their 10th consecutive gold in the Games’ history.
In combat sports, Nigeria excelled in wrestling and boxing, clinching a total of 14 gold medals. Notably, all female wrestlers representing Nigeria in Ghana secured gold medals, showcasing the country’s strength in these disciplines. Boxing also contributed significantly with 11 competitors winning eight gold medals collectively.
Other sports like arm wrestling, Judo, and Badminton also saw impressive results for Nigeria. Anuoluwapo Opeyori set the tone by delivering Nigeria’s first gold medal in Ghana in the men’s singles badminton event.
While some sports like cricket, swimming, and handball did not secure gold medals, their performances were commendable. However, there were disappointing outcomes in men’s football and women’s Table Tennis, where Nigeria fell short of claiming gold medals.
Egypt emerged as the overall winner of the Games, reaching a historic milestone by becoming the first nation to achieve 100 gold medals in the event’s history. South Africa secured third place, followed by Algeria, while the host nation, Ghana, finished in sixth place. In total, 44 participating countries secured at least one medal, showing the broad participation and competitiveness of the African Games.
Despite some setbacks and missed opportunities, Team Nigeria’s performance at the 13th African Games showcased the country’s strength in various sports and the remarkable achievements of its athletes. The focus now shifts to preparation for future events and the continuous development of sports in Nigeria.
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