By Our Correspondent
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has congratulated 16-year-old Oghenegaren Esiovwa-Thompson on his historic gold medal victory at the Commonwealth Fencing Championships in Lagos.
Esiovwa-Thompson, an indigene of Osubi in Okpe Local Government Area of Delta State, made history by becoming the first Nigerian to win gold in the men’s Under-23 epee event at the Commonwealth championship.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, Governor Oborevwori described the young fencer’s achievement as a remarkable feat that had brought honour and pride to Delta State and Nigeria.
The governor commended Esiovwa-Thompson for his exceptional talent, determination and composure, particularly his ability to overcome more experienced opponents on his way to the historic victory.
Competing for Nigeria for the first time after switching allegiance from England, the 16-year-old delivered an impressive performance, defeating three Indian opponents en route to the final.
He sealed the gold medal with a commanding 15-5 victory over Asian champion Lokesh Verma of India in the final. India’s Godwin Natarajan and Ashwini Shaurya won the bronze medals.
Esiovwa-Thompson had earlier gone unbeaten in Pool 4 to secure a bye into the round of 16.
He then defeated South Africa’s Mathobela 15-7 before overpowering an Indian opponent 15-2 in the quarter-final.
In the semi-final, the young Nigerian overcame another strong challenge from India’s Ashwini Shaurya, winning 15-11 to book his place in the final.
Governor Oborevwori said the achievement demonstrated the enormous potential of young Deltans when provided with the right environment, encouragement and opportunities to excel.
He also commended Esiovwa-Thompson’s family, coaches and other individuals who contributed to his development, urging the young athlete to remain focused and pursue greater accomplishments on the international stage.
The governor assured that his administration would continue to support initiatives aimed at promoting youth development and sporting excellence in Delta State.
According to him, achievements by young athletes such as Esiovwa-Thompson would inspire a new generation of Deltan youths to pursue excellence and make meaningful contributions to the development of the state and country.
Oborevwori wished the young fencer more victories and greater laurels in his sporting career, urging him to remain a worthy ambassador of Delta State and Nigeria.
