In a recent interview at the Lagos Intercontinental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lovethpatra Ekufu, Acting Vice President of the Global Association of Mixed Martial Arts (GAMMA), expressed her confidence in the sport’s future in Nigeria following the country’s exceptional performance at the 13th African Games in Ghana.
Nigeria’s path to success at the African Games was arduous. It commenced with the national MMA championship in February, serving as the qualification event for the African Games. This demanding tournament was organized by the Boxing and MMA Hall of Fame, the official representative of GAMMA in Nigeria. Despite the lack of attention and support from their own nation, the Nigerian contingent of nine MMA fighters persevered and made the long journey to Accra, Ghana, to compete in the Games.
Even with MMA being featured for the first time as a demonstration at the African Games, under amateur MMA rules established by GAMMA, the Nigerian athletes were resolute in proving themselves against competitors from Benin Republic, Burkina Faso, Cote d’Ivoire, Egypt, Sudan, Togo, Uganda, Libya, and the host, Ghana. Against all odds, they emerged triumphant, winning medals in all nine weight categories.
The exceptional achievements of these fighters, including the five gold, four silver, and one bronze medals they secured, have demonstrated Nigeria’s remarkable talent in MMA. Athletes such as Muzan Richard, Eze Daniel, Busayo Idowu, Olanike Sodiq, and Joy Obanla have brought great pride to their country with their remarkable performances in their respective weight categories.
One of the silver medallists, Albert Idowu, shared her heartfelt story of entering MMA and her aspirations to become a world champion. Her narrative of encouragement and support from her family, as well as her dedication to the sport, showcases the extraordinary determination of these athletes. Another silver medallist, Benard Eweh, highlighted the potential of MMA as a prosperous field for Nigeria and expressed gratitude to his wife for her constant support.
These achievements have led to the official recognition of MMA in Africa by the Association of African Sports Confederations (AASC). Presently, GAMMA has 20 recognized and active member federations on the continent, including the Ghanaian Mixed Martial Arts Association. This recognition is a significant step in MMA’s journey towards becoming an officially recognized sport in the Olympic movement and being listed at the Olympic Games.
Nigeria’s triumph at the African Games stands as evidence of the growing popularity of MMA in Africa. The accomplishments of these fighters provide inspiration for others and help solidify the place of MMA as a respected sport on the African continent.