ASABA/Nigeria: Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has described Oghenegaren Esiovwa-Thompson’s gold-medal performance at the Commonwealth Fencing Championships in Lagos as evidence of the potential of young Deltans to excel when given the right opportunities.
The Governor stated this in a message issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, following the 16-year-old fencer’s historic victory in the men’s Under-23 épée event.
Esiovwa-Thompson, an indigene of Osubi in Okpe Local Government Area of Delta State, won Nigeria’s first-ever gold medal at the Commonwealth Fencing Championships after defeating India’s Lokesh Vemani 15–5 in the final. The victory also made him Nigeria’s first gold medallist at an international fencing competition.
The teenager was competing for Nigeria for the first time after switching allegiance from England and produced an unbeaten run to the final.
He began the competition in Pool 4, where his performance earned him a bye into the round of 16. He subsequently defeated South Africa’s Karabo Mathobela 15–7 before overcoming India’s Shivaansh Kapoor 15–2 in the quarter-final.
In the semi-final, Esiovwa-Thompson defeated India’s Ashwini Shaurya 15–11 to secure his place in the final, where he completed his run with the 15–5 victory over Vemani.
Reacting to the achievement, Oborevwori commended the young athlete for his talent, determination and composure throughout the competition, particularly his ability to overcome more experienced opponents.
The Governor also praised Esiovwa-Thompson’s parents, coaches and other members of his support team for their role in nurturing his talent and supporting his development.
He said the achievement demonstrated what young people from Delta State could accomplish when provided with the appropriate environment, encouragement and opportunities.
Oborevwori urged the young fencer to remain focused and continue working towards greater achievements on the international stage.
He also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to initiatives aimed at youth development and sports excellence, saying the success of athletes such as Esiovwa-Thompson could encourage more young Deltans to pursue their talents.
The Governor wished the teenager further success in his sporting career and urged him to remain a worthy ambassador of Delta State and Nigeria.
