Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has congratulated Nigerian athlete Rukayat Suleimon for winning a gold medal at the World Sambo Cup held in Yerevan, Armenia.
Suleimon made history at the competition, organised by the International Sambo Federation, becoming the first female blind sambist in the world to win a gold medal at the tournament.
In a statement issued on Monday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, the governor commended the athlete for her outstanding performance and for bringing pride to Lagos State and Nigeria.
Suleimon, a Lagos State judo champion, secured the gold medal after defeating opponents from Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan in the women’s 54kg category.
Sanwo-Olu described her achievement as historic, noting that she had etched her name in global sporting history.
“Congratulations to Rukayat Suleimon for making Nigeria and Africa proud by winning a gold medal at the World Sambo Cup, held in Yerevan, Armenia.
“I am so proud of her becoming the first Nigerian and African to win gold at an international sambo event and the first female blind sambist globally to achieve such a feat,” he said.
The governor also praised her determination and preparation, noting that her victory on international debut underscored her resilience.
“The record set by Rukayat Suleimon is commendable and shows the world what Nigerian excellence looks like. Winning a gold medal during an international debut is no small feat.
“The success is a result of Suleimon’s preparedness, determination and commitment to the competition,” he added.
He further described the athlete as a source of inspiration, particularly for young Nigerians, saying, “She is an inspiration and role model for young girls across Nigeria who dream big. We are so proud of her.”
Suleimon’s victory marks a significant milestone for Nigeria in Sambo, a combat sport gaining global recognition, and highlights the growing presence of Nigerian athletes in international competitions.
