Nigeria’s rising stars are delivering a spectacular, all-round performance at the 4th African Youth Games in Angola, signaling a bright future for the nation’s sports. With the event underway from December 10–20, 2025, the country’s young athletes have shone across multiple disciplines, securing medals and gaining vital competitive experience on the continental stage.
The track and field arena proved especially fruitful for Team Nigeria. The nation finished second overall in athletics with an impressive haul of 11 medals – six gold and five silver – highlighting both quality and depth.
Sprint Queens Dominate
On the track, Nigeria’s next generation of female sprinters announced their arrival in style. Rosemary Chigozie Nwankwo stormed to gold in the girls’ 100m, Tejirih Ugoh powered to victory in the 200m, and Hafsoh Bisola Majekodunmi delivered a commanding performance to win the 400m. In the field, Timothy Ugherakpoteni leaped to gold in the boys’ triple jump, while Nigeria also swept the medley relays, claiming gold in both the boys’ and girls’ events.
Silver Streak on Track
The silver medalists showcased Nigeria’s breadth of talent: Akolo Emmanuel (boys’ 100m), David Udoh (boys’ 400m), Godswill Nkemakolam (long jump), Gift Gowon (400m hurdles), and Perfect Faye (boys’ 200m) all secured podium finishes in tightly contested events.
Success Beyond Athletics
Nigeria’s prowess extended well beyond the track. In table tennis, the duo of Matthew Fabunmi and Ojo Favour clinched gold in a thrilling mixed doubles final. On the sand, the women’s beach volleyball team spiked their way to gold, while badminton players returned with multiple medals. In the pool, Aidan Dumuje Abili secured bronze in the 50m backstroke, and on the golf course, Josephine Clement Benjamin swung to a historic bronze – a rare medal for Nigeria in the sport.
A Boost for Sports Development
The National Sports Commission has hailed the team’s performance as evidence of growing depth across sports and age groups. Under the federal government’s Renewed Hope Initiative for Nigeria’s Sports Economy (RHINSE), emphasis has been placed on preparation, athlete welfare, and systematic development – principles now bearing fruit at the youth level.
“These results are encouraging and reflect our commitment to building a sustainable sports economy from the grassroots up,” a Commission spokesperson said. “Our focus remains on nurturing these talents as they progress to higher competitions.”
As the Games enter their final days, Nigeria’s young ambassadors have not only collected medals but also built a strong foundation for the future – promising a new era of Nigerian excellence on the world stage.
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