Nigeria is set to make history as it participates for the first time in the World Sambo Championships, scheduled to take place in Astana, Kazakhstan, from November 6 to 10, 2024. This significant milestone follows Nigeria’s commendable performance at the African Beach Sambo Championships held in Morocco. The Nigerian team, which will be led by Samuel Oladele Kekere, a blind sambist, is poised to join athletes from 79 other nations in a competition that will occur at the Zhaksylyk Ushkempirov Martial Arts Palace, renowned for hosting various martial arts competitions. This participation not only highlights Nigeria’s growing presence in the combat sports arena but also showcases the determination and resilience of its athletes.
The Nigerian contingent will feature prominent figures such as African women’s champion Charity Jatau, alongside James Chegwam and Alani Balogun, all under the guidance of Lagos State coach Gbenga Montana. The inclusion of these athletes reflects a commitment to building a strong sambo community in Nigeria, positioning them at the forefront of this unique sport. The thorough preparation of the team is indicative of their ambition to excel on the global stage and bring recognition to Nigerian sambo.
Sheriff Hammed, the Vice President and General Secretary of the Sambo Association of Nigeria, underscored the groundbreaking nature of Nigeria’s participation, especially emphasizing Kekere’s role as the only African representative in the blind category. Hammed expressed the inspirational message behind their participation, stating that it brings hope to individuals facing challenges, demonstrating that with determination, it is possible to achieve greatness. He noted that the opportunity for support and recognition in sports could transform lives, encouraging those with disabilities to strive for excellence despite the odds stacked against them.
The World Sambo Championships will feature various events, including men’s and women’s sport sambo, combat sambo, and for the first time, men’s SVI-1 blind sambo for totally blind athletes. The tournament is expected to award a total of 31 medals, showcasing the competitive spirit and capabilities of athletes across different categories. Roman Novikov, the Chairman of the FIAS Commission for Athletes with Disabilities, confirmed that Kekere meets the international classification requirements for blind sambo, thus validating his participation and further emphasizing the inclusive nature of the championships.
In addition to the excitement surrounding their debut, challenges remain, particularly in the context of funding. Hammed revealed that participation is currently self-sponsored, highlighting the need for financial support from various sectors, including the government, private organizations, and individual patrons. This call for assistance underscores the financial difficulties faced by the athletes and the broader sports community in Nigeria. However, there is a glimmer of hope as the Lagos State Public Works has pledged support, demonstrating a commitment to fostering sporting talent within the region.
International Sambo Federation President Vasily Shestakov praised the inclusion of athletes with disabilities, acknowledging their extraordinary resolve to compete on equal grounds. His remarks reflect a growing movement within international sports to embrace inclusivity and provide platforms for athletes of all abilities. As Nigeria readies itself for this momentous event, the journey of its sambists serves as a powerful narrative of perseverance, determination, and the unyielding spirit of competition, inspiring countless others to pursue their dreams, regardless of the challenges they may face.
