Nigeria's Blind Women to Make World Cup History in Armenia

Rukayat Taiwo and Elizabeth Aseso are preparing to step onto the world stage in a way no African women have done before.

The two blind sambists from Nigeria will compete at the World SAMBO Cup in Yerevan, Armenia, on April 11 and 12. Taiwo will fight in the 54 kg category while Aseso takes on the 59 kg division at the Gazprom Training and Sports Complex.

Their participation marks a milestone for a continent that has been steadily building its presence in the sport. Nigeria made its blind SAMBO debut in 2024, becoming the first African nation to compete in the discipline.

Sherif Hammed, Vice President of the Nigeria Sambo Association, sees this moment as part of a larger movement. "Now, we are set to become the first African nation to feature in female blind SAMBO at the World Cup, and we are hopeful of making history with medals," he said.

The sport is gaining recognition globally, particularly within the Olympic community. Nigeria's progress has been remarkable in just two years, with Samuel Kekere becoming the first Nigerian and African blind sambist to compete at the 2024 World Cup.

Last year, Sodiq Ajibade won bronze at the 2025 World Cup, bringing home Africa's first medal in the sport. Now Taiwo and Aseso are ready to continue that winning tradition.

Why This Inspires

Hammed's motivation goes deeper than medals and records. "What drives me is the belief that sport is a powerful tool for empowerment and inclusion," he told The PUNCH. "Every athlete, regardless of circumstance, has potential waiting to be unlocked."

Working with blind athletes has transformed his understanding of what's possible. "Their determination, focus and resilience are truly inspiring. They see beyond limitations, and that is what makes them exceptional," he said.

Taiwo's confidence reflects that same spirit. "I am fully ready for this challenge, and I am so happy to be part of history in Nigeria and Africa as a whole," she said ahead of the competition.

The World Cup will feature three disciplines: Sport SAMBO, Combat SAMBO, and Blind SAMBO. Classification for visually impaired athletes begins on April 9, giving the competitors time to prepare for their historic matches.

Two women are proving that barriers exist only until someone decides to break through them.