Nigeria is set to make history as two of its blind women sambists prepare for their World SAMBO Cup debut in Yerevan, Armenia.
Rukayat Taiwo and Elizabeth Aseso will become the first African women to compete in the blind SAMBO category at the international event scheduled for April 11–12, 2026, at the Gazprom Training and Sports Complex.
Taiwo, a Lagos State champion, will compete in the 54 kg category, while Aseso will contest the 59 kg division.
Their participation represents a significant milestone in Nigeria’s growing influence in blind SAMBO, a sport gaining recognition within the global and Olympic community.
Sherif Hammed, Vice President of the Nigeria Sambo Association, praised the athletes’ determination. “Nigeria has led the way in blind SAMBO since our debut in 2024.
Now, with female representation, we aim to make history with medals. Sport is a powerful tool for empowerment, and working with blind athletes has been inspiring. Their focus, resilience, and drive defy limitations,” Hammed said.
Taiwo expressed excitement ahead of the competition, stating, “I am fully prepared and proud to be part of this historic moment for Nigeria and Africa.”
Nigeria’s journey in blind SAMBO has been remarkable. Samuel Kekere was the first Nigerian and African blind sambist to compete at the 2024 World Cup, while Sodiq Ajibade secured Africa’s first medal—a bronze—at the 2025 edition.
The 2026 World Cup will feature Sport SAMBO, Combat SAMBO, and Blind SAMBO, with classifications for visually impaired athletes beginning on April 9.
Nigeria’s blind sambists are now positioned to inspire the next generation of athletes while reinforcing the nation’s commitment to inclusion and sporting excellence.
This historic representation highlights not only Nigeria’s leadership in blind SAMBO but also the rising global visibility of African women in combat sports.
