Two Nigerian blind sambists, Rukayat Taiwo and Elizabeth Aseso, are set to make history as the first African women to compete at the World SAMBO Cup, which holds in Yerevan, Armenia, from April 11 to 12, 2026.

Taiwo, a Lagos State champion, will compete in the 54 kg category while Aseso will feature in the 59 kg category at the competition, which will be staged at the Gazprom Training and Sports Complex.

Sherif Hammed, Vice President of the Nigeria Sambo Association, described the milestone as another step in Nigeria’s pioneering journey in the sport.

“Since our debut in 2024, Nigeria has been at the forefront of blind SAMBO, which is gaining global recognition, particularly within the Olympic community.

“Now, we are set to become the first African nation to feature in female blind SAMBO at the World Cup, and we are hopeful of making history with medals,” Hammed said.

He added that his commitment to the athletes is driven by a deep belief in the power of sport.

“What drives me is the belief that sport is a powerful tool for empowerment and inclusion. Every athlete, regardless of circumstance, has potential waiting to be unlocked. Working with our blind athletes has been an incredible experience. Their determination, focus and resilience are truly inspiring — they see beyond limitations, and that is what makes them exceptional,” Hammed told The PUNCH.

Taiwo, speaking ahead of the competition, said she was prepared for the challenge.

“I am fully ready for this challenge, and I am so happy to be part of history in Nigeria and Africa as a whole,” she said.

Nigeria’s progress in the sport has been steady. Samuel Kekere became the first Nigerian and African blind sambist to compete at the 2024 World Cup, while Sodiq Ajibade won the continent’s first medal — a bronze — at the 2025 edition.

The 2026 World Cup will feature three disciplines: Sport SAMBO, Combat SAMBO, and Blind SAMBO. Classification for visually impaired athletes begins on April 9.