The 13th edition of the ECOWAS African Wrestling Tournament concluded in grand style at the Velodrome, MKO Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, with Nigeria making history in the first-ever female category. 

While Senegal emerged overall winners with three gold and one silver, Nigeria secured second place with two gold and one silver, thanks to the outstanding performances of Ebipatei Lienbofa (66kg) and Ebi Bigos (76kg) in the women’s category.

This marked a historic moment, as it was the first time the women’s category was introduced at the championship, and Nigeria dominated by winning gold in both events. 

Their triumphs not only marked a milestone in the tournament but also inspired Nigeria’s overall second-place finish, underscoring the growing impact of female athletes in the nation's sporting landscape.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, NSC Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, applauded Nigeria’s female wrestlers for their resilience and dedication, emphasizing their consistent contributions to the country’s sporting achievements.

"Today is women's day, and we are proud as a Commission and, indeed, as a country, of the doggedness and resilience of our female wrestlers in this tournament," Dikko said.

"Over the years, our women have always come through for Nigeria in winning medals, and they have done the same again. We salute our sportswomen—where would we be without them?"

He further recounted that the success of the female wrestlers aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to sports development.

Similarly, ECOWAS Commissioner for Human Development and Social Affairs, Professor Fatou Sow Sarr, represented by Amb. Francis Chuks Njoaguani, expressed gratitude to the Nigerian government for hosting the event and encouraged participants to uphold the values of unity, resilience, and excellence showcased during the tournament.

The event concluded with the presentation of medals, trophies, and cash prizes, with Senegal receiving $10,000, Nigeria earning $6,000, and Benin claiming $3,000.

Final Team Standings

1. Senegal – 3 Gold, 1 Silver

2. Nigeria – 2 Gold, 1 Silver

3. Benin Republic – 1 Silver, 1 Bronze

The introduction of the women’s category for the first time in the tournament’s history saw Nigeria make an emphatic statement by winning gold in both the 66kg and 76kg events.

 This remarkable feat not only showcased the strength of Nigeria’s female wrestlers but also proved decisive in securing the country’s second-place finish.

Their triumphs reaffirm the vital role of women in Nigeria’s sporting success, setting the stage for greater achievements in future competitions.