African Games: Team Nigeria put up strong performance in Ghana

African Games: Team Nigeria put up strong performance in Ghana, Credit: Making of champions

African Games: Team Nigeria put up strong performance in Ghana

Hassan Abdulsalam 15:18 - 23.03.2024

Nigeria dominated proceedings in wrestling and weightlifting but ultimately fell short, finishing in second place overall, behind Egypt on the medal table

The 13th edition of the African Games, which commenced on March 8, will end today with Egypt once again emerging as the perennial champions of the continental sports event.

Team Nigeria can also be proud of their achievements in the competition, finishing as runners-up on the medal table.

The African Games, held in Accra, Kumasi, and Cape Coast, showcased the sporting prowess and diversity of African culture, with 53 out of 54 countries in attendance.

Nigeria's Dominance

Team Nigeria excelled in various sporting disciplines, particularly athletics, where they topped the chart - securing an impressive haul of 11 gold, six silver, and four bronze medals.

Nigeria athletes at African Games. Credit: Noma

Nigerian wrestlers made history in Ghana, achieving an unprecedented clean sweep of all the available gold medals in their respective weight categories. This remarkable accomplishment signifies a monumental moment for Nigerian wrestling on the continental stage.

However, despite dominating wrestling and weightlifting events, Nigeria finished second place overall, trailing Egypt on the medal table with a total of 114 medals: 43 gold, 32 silver, and 39 bronze.

Ghana displays cultural extravaganza

Host nation, Ghana, showcased its cultural treasures through traditional dances, music, and artistic performances. Renowned musicians such as Shatta Wale, King Promise, and Kamo Mphela added to the ceremony's allure with their captivating performances, celebrating Africa's diversity.

Egypt triumph once again

Egypt emerged as the overall champions, amassing a total of 186 medals, comprising 100 gold, 44 silver, and 42 bronze.

Their consistent performance across multiple sports secured their position at the top of the standings, reaffirming their status as a powerhouse in African sports.

South Africa secured the third position, followed by Algeria, Tunisia, hosts Ghana, Morocco, Mauritius, Ethiopia, and Kenya, completing the top 10 spots on the medals table.

Despite the challenges and delays, the 2023 African Games showcased the spirit of unity, friendship, and sporting excellence across the continent.

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