Enku Ekuta Wins Nigeria's First Judo Medal in 24 Years

Enku Ekuta made history on Saturday by winning a bronze medal in the women’s 63kg judo event at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, ending Nigeria's 24-year wait for a judo medal at the Games. The last medal in this sport for Nigeria was achieved in 2002.

Ekuta's success is a significant milestone for Nigerian judo, showcasing the effectiveness of the National Sports Commission's (NSC) renewed focus on high-performance sports development. The NSC had invested in elite athlete preparation, training camps, and international exposure to enhance Nigeria's competitiveness.

Ekuta demonstrated resilience and tactical discipline against top-ranked judokas, securing her medal and contributing to Team Nigeria's overall success at the Games. Her achievement is expected to inspire greater investment in judo development and serve as a role model for young athletes, illustrating that dedication and proper preparation can lead to success in international competitions.