By Daily Sports Nigeria on May 8, 2026

The International SAMBO Federation has praised Nigeria’s growing influence in blind sambo, highlighting the country’s recent string of podium finishes as evidence that its visually impaired athletes have yet to reach their ceiling, The PUNCH reports.

The commendation follows the gold medal won by Rukayat Suleimon at the World SAMBO Cup in Yerevan, Armenia, where the Lagos State judo champion defeated Uzbekistan’s Charos Ortikova 13-2 in the final of the women’s 54kg blind sambo category to become the first female blind sambist to win gold at an international competition.

Federation official Roman Novikov said Suleimon had shown nerves before competition day but was composed and impressive once on the mat.

“This can no longer be called a one-off result,” Novikov said. “At the World SAMBO Championships in Bishkek, a blind athlete from Nigeria, Sodiq Ajibade, claimed bronze in the under-98kg category. I believe Nigerian blind SAMBO athletes have not yet shown their full potential — and they will make themselves heard again.”

Novikov also singled out Sheriff Hammed, Vice President of the SAMBO Federation of Nigeria, for his consistent work in developing the sport among visually impaired athletes, saying his efforts were beginning to bear real fruit.

Hammed said the results were milestones that would inspire greater participation and attract institutional support for blind sambo across Africa.

“Rukayat’s gold and Sodiq’s bronze are not just personal victories — they confirm that with proper investment, coaching and opportunities, Nigeria can become a major force in adaptive combat sports globally,” he said.

He said the federation’s approach had been deliberate, focusing on structured training, specialised coaching, awareness campaigns and expanded participation pathways for visually impaired athletes.

“We have worked closely with stakeholders to ensure blind SAMBO athletes are not just included, but properly developed and given platforms to compete internationally. The recognition from FIAS reflects our commitment to building SAMBO as a sport for everyone,” he added.

On the federation’s long-term vision, Hammed said the goal went beyond medal-winning.

“We are focused on creating a system where visually impaired athletes can consistently thrive. Our plan centres on grassroots talent identification, international exposure and stronger technical education for coaches and officials, so Nigeria remains a respected force in blind SAMBO for years to come,” he said.

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu also hailed the achievement, describing Suleimon as an inspiration to young Nigerians and congratulating her on becoming the first Nigerian and African to win gold at an international sambo event.

The result extends Nigeria’s run in blind sambo following Samuel Kekere’s participation in 2024 and Ajibade’s bronze at the 2025 World Championships.

Source Punch Ng

Posted May 8, 2026

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