Team Nigeria Launches Quest for African Taekwondo Title

Team Nigeria has officially begun its quest for the 2026 African Taekwondo Championships, which will take place in Bamako, Mali. The squad consists of 13 members, including para-athlete poomsa competitors, marking a significant first for the team.

The competition is set to commence on Saturday, following weigh-ins conducted on Friday. Tayo Popoola, the president of the Nigeria Taekwondo Federation, expressed confidence in the team's preparedness to represent the nation.

He highlighted the inclusion of the first female black belter from Kukkiwon, who has achieved a Dan grade in Nigeria. The federation has ensured that the team has all necessary resources for the championship.

This event will also feature para poomsa for the first time, showcasing Nigeria's progress in taekwondo. The Nigerian contingent includes athletes competing in various categories, such as Salawudeen Abdulafeez in kyorugi 63kg and several others in poomsa and kyorugi events.