A United States-based sports enthusiast and founder of Shape Skate Foundation, Imoh Ekasi-Otu, has showered encomiums on Nigeria’s skateboarding sensation, Joseph Ezechi Omojuwa, following his remarkable gold medal triumph at an international skateboarding tournament held a few weeks ago in Cotonou, Republic of Benin.
Omojuwa clinched the top prize at the maiden edition of the championship organised by the Francophone Skate Union in conjunction with the Benin Roller Sports Federation. The competition attracted talented skateboarders from across West Africa and other Francophone nations, making the victory a significant milestone for Nigeria’s growing presence in sports.
Speaking from the United States, Ekasi-Otu, who was one of the sponsors of the Nigerian contingent to the tournament, described Omojuwa’s performance as “historic, inspiring and a clear testament to the resilience and raw talent that Nigeria possesses.”
According to him, the gold medal win did not come as a surprise, given Omojuwa’s consistent dedication, discipline and relentless training over the years. He noted that the champion’s success has once again placed Nigeria on the continental skateboarding map and signalled a bright future for the sport back home.
“Joseph has shown that with the right support and exposure, Nigerian skateboarders can compete and win at the highest level. His victory is not just personal; it belongs to the entire country,” Akasi-Otu stated.
The Shape Skate Foundation founder further commended the organisers for successfully hosting the maiden edition of the tournament, describing it as a bold step toward uniting skateboarders across linguistic and cultural divides in Africa. He stressed that initiatives like this would foster regional collaboration, talent discovery and youth empowerment.
He also used the opportunity to call on corporate bodies, sports administrators and government agencies in Nigeria to invest more in emerging sports such as skateboarding, which he said holds immense potential for youth engagement, tourism and international recognition.
Omojuwa’s gold medal performance reportedly stood out for its technical precision, creativity and flawless execution of complex tricks, earning him high scores from judges and loud ovations from spectators. His victory at the Republic of Benin event marks a defining moment in his career and serves as motivation for aspiring skateboarders across Nigeria.
Sports analysts believe the success of the Nigerian contingent at the maiden championship will further boost the popularity of skateboarding in the country, especially among young people seeking alternative sporting pathways beyond traditional disciplines.
As congratulations continue to pour in from stakeholders and supporters both at home and in the diaspora, Omojuwa’s triumph stands as a shining example of how talent, when nurtured and supported, can bring pride and honour to the nation on the international stage.
Meanwhile, Ghana won Silver while Senegal went home with a Bronze medal.
