Iowa State awards scholarships to trio of wrestlers from Nigeria

Akuh Purity, head coach of the Nigerian women’s wrestling team, has praised Nigeria Wrestling Federation President, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, for his role in securing scholarship transfers for three Nigerian female wrestlers to Iowa State University, a top NCAA Division One programme in the United States.

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Kolawole Esther, Christinah Ogunsanya, and Adekoye Jumoke, formerly of William Penn University, an NAIA institution, have made the move to Iowa State, enabling them to compete at the highest level of collegiate athletics in the United States.

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The transfer is seen as a pivotal moment in the athletes’ academic and sporting careers, according to Purity, who believes it highlights the potential of Nigerian wrestlers when given the right support and international exposure.

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Purity noted that the trio’s consistent participation in international competitions and impressive performances on the global stage caught the attention of Iowa State University recruiters, ultimately earning them the opportunity to pursue academic and athletic careers at a top-tier American university.

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Purity described the achievement as a testament to Adeniyi’s vision and dedication, stating that his financial investment in athlete development has showcased the immense talent of Nigerian wrestlers on the international stage.

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He expressed pride in Kolawole Esther, Christinah Ogunsanya, and Adekoye Jumoke for earning transfers to Iowa State University, crediting Adeniyi’s continuous financial support and investment in athlete development for creating opportunities for Nigerian wrestlers to compete at the highest level.

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Purity emphasized that with the right support, structured development, and access to quality education, Nigerian wrestlers can thrive on the global stage while excelling in both academics and sport.

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The achievement is expected to inspire young wrestlers across the country to strive for excellence, demonstrating that dedication and hard work can lead to global opportunities, according to Purity.

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He also called for sustained investment in grassroots wrestling development and elite athlete programmes to ensure more Nigerian talent competes and excels on the international stage.