The President of the Nigeria Taekwondo Federation, Tayo Popoola, has lauded the performance of Team Nigeria athletes at the ongoing African Taekwondo Championships in Bamako, Mali.
He described their showing so far as encouraging and a testament to the athletes’ determination and quality.
Speaking from Bamako, Grand Master Popoola noted the championship’s highly competitive nature, with athletes from across the continent displaying exceptional technical ability and fighting spirit.
“The event is still underway, and we have secured two bronze medals in Kyorugi through Jordan Joel in the heavyweight (+87kg) category and Chidinma Okoko in the (-62kg) division. Our gold medal came from Ability Matthews Udom in the (-57kg) Para event,” she stated.
Popoola particularly commended Jordan Joel for his impressive performance. “Jordan Joel, competing in his first African Championship, faced several Olympic and World Championship medallists. For him to secure a bronze medal under such circumstances demonstrates his tenacity, courage, and immense potential.”
Reacting to the level of participation, the NTF President revealed that over 35 countries are competing, making the race for medals extremely challenging. “The event is quite significant, with more than 35 countries participating, which, as you know, means it’s a very tough competition. Many nations arrived with over 30 athletes, including several international tournament champions. Despite this, Nigerian athletes are competing very well, and I believe we will continue to perform strongly.”
With the Kyorugi events nearing completion, Popoola expressed confidence in Nigeria’s Poomsae team, stating the athletes are capable of adding further medals to the country’s tally. “We are still competing in the Poomsae events and hope to secure medals across various categories. I trust our Poomsae athletes to deliver and improve our standing on the medal table.”
As of Tuesday, 2nd June 2026, evening in Bamako, Mali, Team Nigeria had won a total of four medals at the championship—one gold and three bronze medals—with hopes of adding more before the competition concludes.
