Nigeria's Alade Ajibade claimed bronze in the men's -98kg blind Sambo category at the 2025 World Sambo Championships in Bishkek, Uzbekistan, becoming the first African to medal in the discipline. This debut international success highlights growing opportunities in adaptive sports on the continent. The achievement also coincides with Nigeria's full membership in the International Sambo Federation.
At the 2025 World Sambo Championships held in Bishkek, Uzbekistan, Nigerian athlete Alade Ajibade etched his name in history by winning a bronze medal in the men's -98kg blind Sambo category. This marked the first time an African competitor has medaled in blind Sambo, a significant step for adaptive sports in the region. Ajibade's triumph came during his international debut, standing out as the only medal for Nigeria's three-member team.
Sheriff Hammed, Vice President of the Sambo Associations of Nigeria and a prominent advocate for the sport in Africa, praised the accomplishment. "This achievement is truly historic and deeply inspiring," Hammed said. "It reflects not only the resilience and talent of our athletes but also the growing recognition of Africa’s potential in adaptive sports like Sambo. Winning this medal is a testament to our commitment to inclusion, excellence, and development at all levels. It sends a strong message that with the right support and opportunity, our athletes – regardless of ability – can compete and excel on the world stage."
The event also saw a milestone for Nigerian Sambo beyond the mats. At the International Sambo Federation's (FIAS) 37th elective congress, Nigeria was granted full membership status. Togo, the Maldives, the Central African Sambo Federation, and the Sambo Union of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina received similar recognition. Delegates approved these inclusions as a new FIAS Executive Board was formed, bolstering the sport's global footprint and Nigeria's integration into it.