Judo board backs Oshodi after historic Commonwealth Games success

The Board of the Nigeria Judo Federation (NJF) has unanimously voted in favor of retaining its President, Dr Musa Oshodi, following Enku Ekuta's historic bronze medal achievement at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games. This decisive resolution was adopted on Monday, August 18, 2026, during the NJF's online statutory meeting. Vice-President and Technical Director Omo Oba Segun Gbayi moved the motion, which the board deemed a testament to the effectiveness of Oshodi's leadership.

Ekuta's bronze in the women's -63kg category marked the first Commonwealth Games judo medal for Nigeria in 24 years, ending the country's wait for such an honor. The previous medal was won by Alice Livinus at Manchester 2002. The NJF attributed this historic breakthrough to a series of deliberate programs and policies implemented under Oshodi's guidance. These included transparent Commonwealth Games trials in Abuja, enhanced training camps, increased international exposure, and improved athlete welfare.

The board also highlighted Nigeria's consistent performances at the African Judo Championships, citing Ekuta's gold and silver medals in 2020 and 2019, respectively. They emphasized that Dr. Oshodi has "repositioned Nigerian Judo and taken it to enviable heights through purposeful leadership, accountability, and athlete-centered programs."

The NJF described Ekuta's achievement as "symbolic" and called for increased investment in grassroots development and athlete welfare to maintain this momentum. The federation aims to capitalize on this success ahead of the 2028 Olympic Games, African Games, and other international competitions.