Oyo State recorded another major milestone in its growing archery development programme after winning six medals at the just-concluded Zen Archery Lagos International Open Tournament 3.0.
The Oyo contingent, represented by the Kingsmen Archery Team, competed against top archers from across Africa, including participants from Chad, Zimbabwe, Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea, and several Nigerian clubs, emerging as one of the most successful teams at the tournament.
The team secured a total of six medals comprising three gold medals and three silver medals in the highly competitive 30-metre Barebow category.
Leading the charge was Saka Habibat Abiola, who won gold in the individual female event after an impressive display of accuracy and consistency throughout the competition.
Oyo State further dominated the category as Habeebat claimed the silver medal, completing a memorable one-two finish for the state in the women’s individual event.
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Habibat also teamed up with Ismail Kabiru to win gold in the Mixed Team event, while the pair of Habibat and Habeebat secured another gold medal in the Female Team category.
The state’s male team also finished strongly, earning a silver medal after a spirited performance against tough opposition.
The impressive performance has been described as another indication of the rapid growth of archery in Oyo State, where clubs, coaches and administrators have intensified efforts to develop the sport and discover new talents.
Speaking after the tournament, Kingsmen Archery Team co-founder, Seun Ogunlana, praised the athletes for their dedication and commitment.
“These results are a reflection of the hard work, sacrifice and discipline displayed by our athletes over several months. We are extremely proud of what they have achieved at this tournament. They competed with courage, focus and professionalism, and their success is well deserved,” Ogunlana said.
Also reacting to the feat, the Chairman of the Oyo State Archery Association, Mr Seyi Alaba, said the medals were evidence that the state’s investment in the sport was beginning to yield positive results.
“Every medal won here represents countless hours of training, teamwork and support from coaches, administrators and fellow athletes. We are building a culture of excellence, and these achievements show that we are moving in the right direction,” Alaba said.
The Zen Archery Lagos International Open has become one of Africa’s leading archery competitions, providing a platform for elite athletes and emerging talents to compete at international standards.
