As Team Nigeria Wrestling athletes prepare to hit the mat at the Olympic Games in Paris, female Wrestling head coach Akuh Purity has expressed determination to surpass the previous Olympic achievements.
In an interview with Promise Okotoko, Media Assistant of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation, Purity revealed that the athletes are eager to make Nigerians proud once again.
It’s worth noting that the Wrestling Federation was the top-performing federation at the last Olympics in Tokyo, where it secured a silver medal.
Purity emphasized that technical and other essential strategies have been implemented to exceed past Olympic accomplishments.
He highlighted that the wrestlers have been training diligently to ensure Nigeria secures more medals through the sport.
“We understand there are high expectations for Wrestling, especially after Oborodudu’s silver medal at the last Olympics. However, we are not feeling pressured, and the Federation has been very supportive,” Purity stated.
He added, “It was a joyous experience to be part of that success at the last Olympics, and I am eager to replicate that feeling with multiple podium finishes.”
Purity also took the opportunity to thank the Wrestling Federation leadership for providing a supportive and conducive environment, as well as the Federal Ministry of Sports for their efforts in preparation for the games.
He urged Nigerians to support the wrestling athletes through prayers as they aim to bring pride to the nation.
“I want to thank the Wrestling Federation board for their support and the Federal Ministry for their efforts in ensuring we are well-prepared,” Purity said. “I ask Nigerians to continue praying for us and supporting the team. I assure them that we will give our best performance.”
The Wrestling events for Nigerian athletes are scheduled as follows:
August 10-11: World Military Gold Medalist & World Number 8, Hannah Reuben (WW76kg)
August 5-6: Tokyo 2020 Silver Medalist & World Number 6, Blessing Oborududu (WW68kg)
August 7-8: 2023 African Games Champion & World Number 8, Christianah Ogunsanya (WW53kg)
August 8-9: Three-Time Commonwealth Games Champion & World Number 3, Odunayo Adekuroye (WW57kg)
August 9-10: World Number 10, Esther Kolawole (WW62kg) and World Number 15, Ashton Adeyemi Mutuwa (MW125kg)
