Lagos’ badmintonist and current African champion, Anuoluwapo Opeyori has soared to victory, clinching the first gold medal for Team Nigeria at the All African Games currently underway in Accra, Ghana.
Opeyori, a talented badminton player who was discovered and groomed in Lagos, dominated the competition, leaving his opponents behind to secure the prestigious Gold medal. He faced formidable competition from seasoned athletes, yet he displayed remarkable resilience and determination, showcasing exceptional skills to secure victory. Opeyori’s victory brings pride to Lagosians and serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes across the nation.
Opeyori wasn’t the only Lagosian to shine in the badminton tournament. An Olympian Godwin Olofua, another Lagos badmintonist discovered and nurtured, delivered a stellar performance, securing the silver medal in badminton. Olofua’s exceptional performance adds to Nigeria’s growing medal count and showcases the depth of talent drawn from Lagos to represent Nigeria at the All African Games.
Opeyori had the day beating his compatriot, Godwin Olofua 2-1(23/21, 17/21, 15/21) in the Finals to defend his Men’s Singles title and won Nigeria’s1st Gold medal at the ongoing edition of Games in Accra, Ghana.
The impressive display of talent from these Lagos athletes is a testament to the state’s thriving sporting scene. It also highlights the support system that the Lagos State Sports Commission put in place.
This incredible victory of the duo has ignited widespread jubilation across Nigeria and set a positive tone for the Nigerian team’s performance at the All African Games. Nigerians at home and abroad are cheering for Opeyori and Godwin, as well as the entire Nigerian contingent, hoping for continued success in the competition.
In his reaction to the blistering performances of the Lagos grown athletes, the Director General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, Mr Lekan Fatodu expressed immense pride in Opeyori and Godwin’s achievement. “We are thrilled for Anuoluwapo Opeyori and Godwin Olufua’s performance at the recent Games,” Fatodu exclaimed. “Their dedication, talent, and relentless pursuit of excellence have culminated in these well-deserved gold and silver medals, respectively. “This win not only brings immense honour to Lagos State, but to all of Nigeria. It is an attestation to the incredible potential of our athletes and the commitment of the Lagos State Governor Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu to ensuring an enabling environment and sports ecosystem for nurturing champions”.
Fatodu continued, “Anuoluwapo and Godwin’s victory serves as a powerful inspiration to aspiring athletes across the country. It demonstrates that with training, discipline and determination, dreams can become reality. We at the Lagos State Sports Commission are committed to providing continuous support to our athletes and fostering an environment where they can thrive”.
Nigerians nationwide are erupting in excitement, celebrating Opeyori and Godwin’s victory. Opeyori and Godwin’s win has instilled a sense of optimism and excitement as the All African Games continue to unfold.
With the Games still ongoing, anticipation for further success by Nigerian athletes is high. All eyes are now on Team Lagos as they lead the charge and strive to win more gold medals for Nigeria at the 13th All African Games.
