Nigeria’s three-man contingent is set to launch their medal hunt at the 2025 World Sambo Championships in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, as the global event officially begins on Friday (today).
The nation will be represented by Fatai Balogun, Samuel Kekere, and Sodiq Ajibade, who will compete across the combat sambo and blind sambo divisions. Balogun is entered in the men’s 88kg Combat Sambo class, while Kekere — who broke new ground in 2024 by becoming the first African athlete to participate in blind sambo at the World Championships — returns in the men’s 64kg Blind Sambo category.
Ajibade, appearing at the competition for the first time, will feature in the men’s 98kg Blind Sambo event, where he hopes to secure a podium finish for Nigeria.
Ahead of his second appearance on the world stage, Kekere expressed excitement and extended his appreciation to the sport’s governing body and Nigerian officials. “I am grateful to FIAS for their continued support and to Sheriff Hammed, who has worked tirelessly to ensure we are here. This is not just about me; it’s about showing that Africans with disabilities can compete at the highest level,” Kekere told newsmen.
Sheriff Hammed, who serves as Vice President and General Secretary of the Sambo Association of Nigeria, shared optimism about the team’s chances, noting that the athletes were prepared to make a strong impression at this year’s championships.
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