Lagos Blind Sports Fiesta: Kekere, Justina, emerge champions in Blind Judo

Posted : 21 November 2024

The duo of Oladele Kekere and Mokwue Justina have emerged as champions in the men's and women's categories of the judo event at the Lagos 2024 Blind Sports Fiesta, tagged "Hope Awaken," which is currently ongoing at the Molade Okoya-Thomas Indoor Sports Hall of Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.

Now in its fourth edition, the fiesta provides an enviable platform for people with visual impairments to hone their skills and encourage more participants in various sporting activities.

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In the powerlifting event, Oladele Sunday, Oko Dennis, Ojemen Cyril, and Ajibade Sodiq took first place in their respective weight categories: 67kg, 75kg, 82kg, and 90kg.

Kekere endured an intense encounter in his fight against Samuel Ige, but his experience and skills came into play as he successfully defeated his opponent to claim the title in his category.

Meanwhile, Justina, in the female +78kg category, did not allow Egbobi Grace to dominate on the mat. She used various techniques to overpower her opponent and secured the victory in grand style.

Kekere, the winner in the -65kg category, stated that he is very glad to have come out on top in his weight category, which is a result of his consistent training and the experience he has gathered since venturing into blind judo.

He said that he has found joy in doing judo, and it has motivated him to continue moving forward with his career in blind sports.

While expressing his gratitude to the Lagos State government and the sports commission for believing in people with visual impairments and giving them the opportunity to showcase their talents, Kekere hinted that he will not relent in his efforts until he reaches the pinnacle of blind combat sports.

Justina expressed her joy in taking part in the Lagos fiesta and mentioned that she is looking forward to taking the sport to other African countries and beyond. She also shared that, with the skills and knowledge she has gathered in the sport, she is confident, capable, and fit, as there is ability in disability.

Nunayon Travih, Director of Sports Development at LSSC, stated that the essence of the Lagos Blind Sports is to provide a platform for people with visual impairments to engage in productive activities and lead meaningful lives through sports.

He added that the platform will further empower the athletes, improve their performances, and prepare them for other local and international competitions.

Uthman Ola Okunnu, Director of Technical at LSSC, highlighted that one of the state's key goals is inclusivity in sports, noting that providing visually impaired athletes with the right platform to participate in the Lagos Fiesta is an important step toward raising the profile of blind sports.

Hammed Sheriff, Chairman of the Lagos State Judo Association, lauded the sports commission for this inspiring initiative that allows special athletes to participate in blind sports.

He pointed out that under his leadership, the association will build on this legacy by giving blind judokas more opportunities and exposing them to competitions and training tours to further their development.

Traditional sports, including Ayo Olopon and Goalball, continue, as the state uses sports and other initiatives to reawaken the hope of people with disabilities.

Lagos Blind Sports Fiesta: Kekere, Justina, emerge champions in Blind Judo

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