She lost her sight - now she is fighting to make history for Africa

What the report says

Nigeria’s Rukayat Taiwo Suleimon has made a notable breakthrough in sambo, becoming the first female blind athlete to win gold at a major international tournament. According to BBC Sport Africa, she claimed the women’s 54kg title at the 2026 World Sambo Cup in Armenia, defeating Uzbekistan’s Charos Ortikova in the final on her international debut. The event also marked the first time women with visual impairments were included in the competition.

Suleimon’s success comes after a difficult personal journey. BBC reported that she lost her sight in 2009 following failed surgeries linked to glaucoma, and that the change left her isolated for years. Her path back into sport began after vocational training in Lagos, leading first to para-athletics, then judo and sambo. She has since built a strong record in Nigerian para-sport, with more than 20 national medals across sprinting, discus and shot put.

Her achievement is significant not only for her own career but also for Africa’s growing presence in sambo and for visibility in disability sport. BBC also noted that another Nigerian, Elizabeth Aseso, competed in the 59kg division, reflecting a wider continental milestone. Suleimon said she hopes her success can encourage other blind Africans, while also drawing attention to the limited funding, facilities and support many Nigerian para-athletes say they face.