Lagos: Nigeria’s Alade Ajibade made history at the 2025 World Sambo Championships in Bishkek, Uzbekistan, becoming the first African athlete to win a medal in blind Sambo.
Competing in the men’s -98kg category on Saturday, Ajibade secured a bronze medal in his debut international tournament. His feat marked a milestone for adaptive sports in Africa.
Ajibade was the only medalist among Nigeria’s three-person contingent. Sheriff Hammed, Vice President of the Sambo Association of Nigeria, celebrated his achievement.
Hammed, a strong advocate for Sambo and blind Sambo in Africa, described the victory in a statement on Sunday as a breakthrough for the sport on the continent.
“This achievement is truly historic and inspiring. It reflects not only the resilience of our athletes but also Africa’s growing recognition in adaptive sports.
“Winning this medal shows our commitment to inclusion, excellence, and development at every level. It proves that with support, our athletes can excel globally,” he said.
In another significant development, Nigeria was officially admitted as a full member of the International Sambo Federation (FIAS) during its 37th General Assembly, also known as the Elective Congress.
Alongside Nigeria, Togo, the Maldives, the Central African SAMBO Federation, and the Sambo Union of Bosnia and Herzegovina also gained full membership.
Delegates at the Congress voted in favour of their inclusion as a new FIAS Executive Board was constituted to guide the federation’s activities.
Hammed expressed excitement over Nigeria’s admission, describing it as a milestone for the growth and recognition of Sambo in the country.
“Nigeria’s FIAS membership opens doors to international competitions, technical support, and training for coaches and referees.
“Our athletes can now compete under the national flag with greater visibility and opportunity on the world stage,” Hammed said.
He stated that the membership would enhance Nigeria’s sporting credibility, foster cultural exchange, and establish pathways for youth development and sports diplomacy.
“Ultimately, it is a major step towards institutionalising Sambo in Nigeria and positioning the country as a leading force in Africa,” he said.
FIAS President Vasily Shestakov also addressed the Congress, highlighting the organisation’s progress over the past year.
He cited the debut of Combat SAMBO in The World Games 2025 in Chengdu as one of the federation’s significant achievements.
He also mentioned FIAS’s recognition by the International Paralympic Committee and the inclusion of Sambo in the International Military Sports Council’s calendar.