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In a remarkable display of strength, determination, and unwavering commitment, Nigerian athlete Azuegbulam has proudly clinched Africa’s inaugural gold medal at the prestigious Invictus Games.
This historic achievement marks a significant milestone not only for Azuegbulam but also for the entire African continent.
Three years ago, Peacemaker Azuegbulam tragically lost his left leg when his Nigerian army unit came under fire from Boko Haram jihadists in the northern region of the country.
Now, Azuegbulam holds the title of an African champion.
In the previous month, Azuegbulam achieved a remarkable victory by clinching the gold medal at the Invictus Games held in Dusseldorf, Germany. This achievement marked a historic milestone as he became not only the first Nigerian but also the very first African athlete to claim the top honors in this prestigious sporting event.
Reflecting on his accomplishment, Azuegbulam shared his sentiments with AFP in Abuja, stating, “I am immensely proud to be the inaugural champion from Africa in the Invictus Games. The term ‘Invictus’ signifies unconquered, and it embodies our spirit as we continue to persevere and thrive in the face of adversity.”
The Invictus Games, which originated in 2014, were established by Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, himself a veteran, with the noble intention of aiding in the recovery and rehabilitation of wounded servicemen and women through the power of sports.
The event has expanded to encompass participation from 23 nations, featuring a diverse range of sports, including weightlifting, volleyball, and table tennis.
At the age of 27, Azuegbulam secured a gold medal in powerlifting while also actively engaging in sitting volleyball and various other sports.
Azuegbulam’s journey has been marked by hardship. In October 2020, he served in a military unit involved in the relentless struggle against jihadists in the northeastern region of Nigeria. This region has witnessed over a decade of continuous combat as the military confronts Islamist militants.
Jihadists opened fire with an anti-aircraft gun, severely injuring Azuegbulam and necessitating doctors to amputate his leg.
“After the injury, I underwent a profound emotional, physical, and mental ordeal. I lost touch with myself, facing tremendous challenges,” he shared.
With the invaluable support of the local organization Nigeria Unconquered, he embarked on a journey of sports-based recovery for wounded servicemen and veterans, ultimately leading to his participation in a team heading to the Invictus Games in September.
Bobby Ojeh, the director of Invictus in Nigeria, expressed his belief that Azuegbulam’s gold medal would inspire others and potentially lead to more African nations participating in the event.
The jihadist conflict in Nigeria’s northern region has tragically claimed the lives of over 40,000 individuals and forced over 2 million others to flee their homes since 2009.
For Azuegbulam, originally hailing from the southeastern state of Imo, sports has been nothing short of a lifeline.
“I’ve undergone a remarkable transformation, all thanks to sports. It’s about seeing yourself actively engaged,” he remarked.
However, he went on to express that his deepest well of inspiration flowed from the camaraderie and support he experienced among his fellow wounded servicemen and women during the Invictus Games.
“I’ve forged new bonds; I’ve found a new family that uplifts, guides, and understands how to lend a hand,” he shared.
Having clinched the gold at the Invictus Games, the Nigerian champion is resolute in his determination to continue competing in various sports.
“As things stand, I am prepared. The capacity is within me, and I’m poised to excel in any sporting endeavor, including the Olympics,” he declared.
“My commitment is unwavering. I wish to channel my energies into sports and continue securing victories.”
