Akuh eyes successful wrestling campaign

The head coach of the Nigeria wrestling team, Purity Akuh, looks to surpass the country’s previous Olympic achievements as they gear up for the event at the Paris 2024 Games, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

In an interview with the Nigeria Wrestling Federation media team, Akuh expressed confidence in the team’s preparations and potential for success. “We are aware of a lot of expectations from wrestling, particularly after Oborodudu gave Nigeria a silver medal at the last Olympics, but we are not under any pressure, and the Federation has been very supportive to that effect,” he said.

“It was a thing of joy to be part of that success at the last Olympics; it is something I will never forget, and yes! I will love to repeat that feeling again by doing well and having multiple podium finishes.”

The coach revealed that extensive technical and strategic preparations have been put in place to surpass previous Olympic achievements. He emphasised that the wrestlers have been training tirelessly to secure medals for Nigeria once again.

Akuh expressed gratitude to the Wrestling Federation’s leadership for providing a conducive working environment and praised the Federal Ministry of Sports for their support in the team’s preparation.

He appealed to Nigerians for support, saying, “I just want Nigerians to keep praying for the team, keep supporting us, and I can assure them that we will give our 100% performance.”

The Nigeria team, comprising Tokyo 2020 silver medallist Blessing Oborududu, African Games champion Christianah Ogunsanya, three-time Commonwealth Games champion Odunayo Adekuroye, and other top-ranked wrestlers including Esther Kolawole, Ashton Adeyemi Mutuwa, and Hannah Reuben, will compete in the wrestling events from August 5 to 11.

Nigeria has achieved the most under the current Wrestling Federation, with Oborududu winning a silver medal at the 2020 edition in Tokyo. Expectations are high for another successful outing in Paris.