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The Niger judo team made a remarkable performance during the 9th edition of the African Judo Open in Dakar, which was held from November 23 to 24, 2024 at the Diamniadio exhibition center, in Senegal. This competition is the last of the 2024 season of the African Judo Union (UAJ). It brought together 105 judokas from 13 nations, celebrating African sporting excellence.
During the Dakar Open, Nigerien judokas committed themselves with determination despite difficult travel conditions (by road), and offered a memorable performance. The four athletes entered all won medals: Abdoul Aziz Djibo (cadet, -55 kg) vice-champion with the silver medal; Abdoul Salam Zakaye (junior, -60 kg) vice-champion with the silver medal; Moussa Yahaya (senior, -60 kg) with the bronze medal; Abdoul Kader Boubacar (senior, -81 kg) with the bronze medal. These four medals demonstrate the talent and resilience of Nigerien athletes, who were able to overcome the logistical challenges linked to a long land journey from Niamey to Dakar.
On the sidelines of the competition, a refereeing test was also organized, allowing two Nigerien referees to distinguish themselves. Mamane Noura Nafissatou and Mounkaila Maiguizo Rakiatou, who successfully passed their written, oral and practical exams, became international referees. Their success strengthens Niger’s position in the African judo landscape.
“We would like to congratulate the Nigerien Judo Federation for its unwavering support. This second trip in one month, entirely supported by the office, demonstrates its commitment to the development of judo in Niger,” a member of the Nigerien Judo Federation proudly underlined. Niger’s performance in Dakar is the result of hard work, marked by patriotism and exemplary team spirit.
Thanks to these successes, the Nigerien team continues to carry the country’s colors high on the international stage, while inspiring future generations of judokas. This performance at the 2024 Dakar Open marks an important step for the development of judo in Niger and opens the way to new successes. Congratulations to the entire Nigerien delegation for this remarkable feat.
Assad Hamadou (ONEP)
