LIVE UPDATES
Team Nigeria continues to assert its dominance on the continental stage, delivering a sterling performance at the maiden edition of the African School Games taking place in Algeria.
Among the standout achievements, 17-year-old Godwin Osaretin Grace etched her name into the history books on Friday by securing the gold medal in the Women's Road Cycling Race, further elevating Nigeria’s profile in continental school sports.
Grace's remarkable victory came after a fiercely contested race, where she clocked an impressive time of 1 hour, 37 minutes, and 2 seconds.
In a gripping finish that kept spectators on the edge of their seats, she edged past Algeria's Chemouni Saoussan, who finished just four seconds behind at 1:37:06.
The thrilling climax to the race drew thunderous applause from the crowd, marking a proud moment for Nigeria in a highly competitive field.
Her gold medal is a testament not only to her personal talent and dedication but also to the growing strength of Nigeria's youth sports development programs.
Grace’s triumph adds to the country's swelling medal haul at the ongoing Games. As of Friday morning, Team Nigeria has secured a commendable total of 11 medals — comprising **three Gold, four Silver, and four Bronze** — with several events still in progress.
Officials from the Nigerian delegation have expressed satisfaction with the team's performance, noting that their success is a reflection of months of preparation and investment in grassroots sports.
“Grace’s victory is symbolic of the Nigerian spirit — resilient, determined, and always striving for excellence,” said a representative from Nigeria’s School Sports Federation. “We are immensely proud of her and all our young athletes making their mark on the continent.
The African School Games, hosted in Algeria for the first time, feature a range of athletic and technical competitions designed to foster unity, sportsmanship, and talent discovery among African youths. Nigeria’s participation not only showcases its athletic potential but also reinforces its commitment to nurturing young sportsmen and women.
With more cycling races, athletics, and team events ahead, hopes remain high that Team Nigeria will further expand its medal tally and leave a lasting legacy at this historic inaugural edition.
All eyes are now on the upcoming races, as the nation rallies behind its emerging stars on the path to greatness.
