Senator John Owan Enoh, the Honourable Minister of Sports Development, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Nojim Maiyegun, Nigeria’s first Olympic medallist, at the age of 85 on Monday.
Maiyegun died two days after the 60th anniversary of his astounding feat at the 1964 Olympics in Tokyo, where he won a bronze medal in boxing. Competing in the Light Middleweight (71 kg) division, he shared the bronze medal with Poland’s Józef Grzesiak when both athletes were eliminated in the semifinals, as is Olympic custom.
In his statement, Senator Enoh expressed his condolences to Maiyegun’s family and the Nigerian sports community, recognising the late boxer’s significant contribution to Nigerian sports. “Nojim Maiyegun’s victory in 1964 was not only for himself, but for all Nigerians. “His legacy as a pioneer of Nigerian sporting excellence will never be forgotten,” the Minister stated.
He went on to say, “We are very grieved by the passing of a true legend, a guy who not only shattered barriers, but also set the benchmark for what Nigerian athletes can do on the global arena.
His perseverance and energy have inspired generations, and we intend to honour his memory by continuing to promote and develop sports in Nigeria. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.”
Maiyegun made history as the first Nigerian to win an Olympic medal, paving the way for future generations of Nigerian competitors and marking a watershed moment in the country’s sporting history.
Maiyegun’s life and achievements continue to inspire people, emphasising the value of tenacity, dedication, and national pride. His death is a tremendous loss for Nigeria and the international athletic world, and he will be remembered as a trailblazer who paved the way for future Olympic achievement.
