Nigeria’s journey in Sambo will reach another milestone this weekend, as two female blind sambists, Rukayat Taiwo and Elizabeth Aseso, on Tuesday departed Lagos aboard Turkish Airlines, for their historic debut at the World Sambo Cup in Yerevan, Armenia.

The competition, scheduled for April 11 and 12, marks the first time Africa will present female blind sambists at a world title tournament.

Led by Coach Sherifat Akintunde, the Nigerian contingent will compete in Blind Sambo – one of three disciplines featured at the World Cup alongside Sport Sambo and Combat Sambo.

Their participation underscores the sport’s growing inclusivity and Nigeria’s pioneering role in opening doors for athletes with special needs.

This achievement builds on a trail of breakthroughs. In 2024, Samuel Oladele Kekere became the first Nigerian and African blind sambist to compete at the World Cup. A year later, Sodiq Ajibade claimed Africa’s first medal, a bronze, at the 2025 edition.

Now, Taiwo, a Lagos State champion in the 54 kg category, and Aseso, competing in the 59 kg category, carry the hopes of Nigeria and the continent into the global arena.

Speaking on the championship, the Vice President of the Nigeria Sambo Association, Sherif Hammed, described the moment as historic.

“This is a milestone opportunity again, introducing the first female athletes not just in Nigeria, but in Africa,” he said. “It’s huge for Lagos, Nigeria, and Africa at large.”

The 2026 World Cup will be staged at the Gazprom Training and Sports Complex in Yerevan, a modern venue meeting international standards.