The Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Desmond Enabulele, has applauded Edo State athletes who represented Nigeria at the 2026 CAC African Track Cycling Championship held in Abuja.
He described their performances as a testament to the state’s growing status as a hub for sporting excellence.
In recognition of their achievements, Enabulele hosted the athletes and their coach, commending them for bringing honour to Edo State and Nigeria through their outstanding performances at the continental championship.
He praised the cyclists for their dedication and assured them of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s commitment to supporting their careers and improving the overall performance of Edo athletes through his grassroots-driven sports development programme.
“You have represented Nigeria excellently, and we are proud of what you have achieved.
“What you have won can never be taken away from you. Set new targets for yourselves and continue striving for greater heights.”
Enabulele further disclosed that the commission would provide immediate financial support to encourage the athletes while discussions continue on broader measures aimed at enhancing their development and preparation for future competitions.
He urged the young cyclists to remain focused, disciplined and committed to their sporting careers, emphasizing that Governor Okpebholo would continue investing in nurturing champions capable of competing successfully on the global stage.
The championship, organized by the National Sports Commission and the Cycling Federation of Nigeria, featured the Para category events from May 9 to 13 and the Able category competitions from May 18 to 19, 2026.
Athletes from Edo State emerged among Nigeria’s top performers at the championship, contributing significantly to the country’s medal haul and reinforcing the state’s reputation as a breeding ground for sporting talent.
Leading Nigeria’s campaign in
the junior women’s division was Osaretin Godwin, who delivered a remarkable performance by winning five individual gold medals and two team gold medals. She concluded the championship with an impressive total of seven gold and two silver medals.Divine Ogbe also distinguished herself by winning two gold, two silver and four bronze medals, while Esther Godwin added another gold medal to Nigeria’s tally. Together, the Edo cyclists played a major role in Nigeria’s overall medal haul of 10 gold, four silver and four bronze medals.
In the Para category, Favour Ojieabu further showcased Edo State’s cycling strength by winning two gold medals and one silver medal, boosting her prospects of representing Nigeria at future international competitions, including the Commonwealth Games.
Osaretin Godwin, Divine Ogbe and Esther Godwin also played a crucial role in Nigeria’s victory in the team sprint event, helping the country overcome strong cycling nations such as Egypt, South Africa, Benin Republic and Zimbabwe.
Speaking on the athletes’ achievements, Coach Okoro Angela praised the determination and resilience displayed by the cyclists throughout the championship, noting that Osaretin Godwin’s accomplishments were particularly impressive considering the challenges she overcame on her journey to success.
According to the coach, Osaretin’s outstanding performances have earned her valuable qualification points for major international competitions, including future continental championships. She described the cyclist’s victories over some of Africa’s most established competitors as evidence of her immense potential.
Coach Okoro also emphasized the need for increased support, improved training facilities and sustained athlete development programmes to enable the cyclists to achieve even greater success at the forthcoming All Africa Games and other international championships.
