Edo Cyclists Win National Recognition After Stellar Outing at African Track Championship

BENIN CITY – Edo State cyclists have earned national recognition following their outstanding performances for Nigeria at the 2026 CAC African Track Cycling Championship held in Abuja.

The championship, organised by the National Sports Commission and the Cycling Federation of Nigeria, featured Para cycling events from May 9 to 13 and Able category competitions from May 18 to 19.

Among the standout performers was Osaretin Godwin, who dominated the junior women’s category by winning five individual gold medals and two team gold medals. She concluded the championship with an impressive haul of seven gold and two silver medals.

Another Edo cyclist, Divine Ogbe, secured two gold, two silver and four bronze medals, while Esther Godwin added a gold medal to Nigeria’s tally. Their contributions played a significant role in Nigeria’s overall medal haul of 10 gold, four silver and four bronze medals.

In the Para category, Favour Ojieabu delivered an impressive performance, winning two gold medals and one silver medal to boost her prospects of representing Nigeria at future international competitions, including the Commonwealth Games.

The trio of Osaretin Godwin, Divine Ogbe and Esther Godwin also helped Nigeria secure victory in the team sprint event, defeating strong cycling nations such as Egypt, South Africa, Benin Republic and Zimbabwe.

Speaking on the athletes’ achievements, Coach Angela Okoro commended their determination, discipline and resilience throughout the championship.

She described Osaretin Godwin’s performance as exceptional, noting that the young cyclist overcame several challenges on her path to victory and earned valuable qualification points for future continental and international competitions.

Okoro stressed the need for increased support, improved training facilities and sustained athlete development programmes to help the cyclists achieve greater success at upcoming major events, including the All Africa Games.

In recognition of their achievements, the Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, hosted the athletes and their coach, applauding them for bringing honour to Edo State and Nigeria.

Enabulele praised their commitment and assured them of the continued support of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration through its grassroots-focused sports development agenda.

“You have represented Nigeria excellently, and we are proud of your achievements. What you have won can never be taken away from you. Set new goals and continue striving for greater heights,” he said.

The Sports Commission chairman also disclosed that the athletes would receive immediate financial support as part of efforts to encourage them, while discussions were ongoing on broader measures to enhance their preparation and development for future competitions.

He urged the cyclists to remain focused, disciplined and dedicated to their sporting careers, assuring them that the state government would continue investing in programmes aimed at producing world-class athletes.

The athletes’ success at the Abuja championship has further strengthened Edo State’s reputation as one of Nigeria’s leading sports hubs and raised expectations for more outstanding performances on the African and global cycling stage.