The curtain is set to fall on an extraordinary era as Nigerian Olympic silver medalist Blessing Oborududu prepares to step off the mat for the last time. As wrestling kicks off today at the 22nd National Sports Festival in Abeokuta, Ogun State, the Amassoma-born icon is set to retire from competitive wrestling, bringing an end to a legendary career that has spanned nearly two decades.
From Humble Beginnings to Wrestling Royalty
Blessing Oborududu’s wrestling journey began in 2006 at the Gateway Games, when she first stepped onto the mat as a secondary school student. Despite early setbacks, her undeniable talent and determination paved the way for a historic career, culminating in twelve African titles and an Olympic silver medal at Tokyo 2020—a feat that solidified her place among the greatest wrestlers Nigeria has ever produced.
Her rise to greatness accelerated when she was invited to a national camp in 2007, following an impressive performance at school inter-house wrestling competitions. Though her parents initially resisted her dream, believing wrestling was reserved for boys, Oborududu’s admiration for Canadian-Nigerian wrestling legend Daniel Igali pushed her forward. Igali’s success as Nigeria’s first Olympic wrestling gold medalist became a source of inspiration, fueling Oborududu’s ambition.
An Unrivaled Champion
Oborududu’s dominance over the years has been nothing short of legendary. After her Gateway Games 2006 debut, she never looked back—winning gold medals in every National Sports Festival appearance, including:
🏆 Kaduna 2009
🏆 Rivers 2011
🏆 Lagos 2012
🏆 Abuja 2018
🏆 Edo 2021
🏆 Delta 2022
Her dedication, passion, and achievements have helped elevate Nigerian wrestling to new heights, inspiring young athletes and leaving an indelible mark on the sport.
A Farewell Fit for a Legend
Oborududu’s name resonates across Africa and beyond, evoking admiration and respect from fans, fellow athletes, and sports lovers worldwide. As she competes one last time at Obafemi Awolowo Square, Remo, Ikenne on Wednesday, all lovers of Nigerian sports are encouraged to give her a rousing ovation for her remarkable contributions.
Meanwhile, as wrestling competitions officially kick off today, various states gear up to battle for glory, eager to make their mark in Nigeria’s biggest multi-sport event.
The legacy of Blessing Oborududu will forever shine, ensuring her name remains etched in history as one of Nigeria’s finest wrestling champions!
