Nigeria (Commonwealth Union) _ Three years ago, Peacemaker Azuegbulam lost his left leg when his Nigerian army unit came under fire from Boko Haram jihadists in the north of the country. Now, Azuegbulam is an African champion, having won gold in the Invictus Games in Dusseldorf, Germany, last month, making him the first Nigerian and the first African to secure the top prize in the games.
The Invictus Games, founded by Prince Harry in 2014, aim to help in the rehabilitation of wounded servicemen and women through sports. The event involves 23 nations and includes sports like weightlifting, volleyball, and table tennis.
Azuegbulam, 27, won gold in a powerlifting category and also competes in sitting volleyball and other sports. His journey to becoming a champion was painful, as he was wounded in 2020 during a military operation against jihadists in northeast Nigeria, resulting in the amputation of his leg.
With the support of the local organization Nigeria Unconquered, he became involved in sports recovery for wounded servicemen and veterans, eventually leading to his participation in the Invictus Games.
Bobby Ojeh, director of Invictus in Nigeria, believes Azuegbulam’s gold medal will inspire others and encourage more African nations to participate in the event.
Azuegbulam credits sports for his recovery and states that it gave him a new sense of purpose and inspiration. He expressed his desire to continue participating in sports competitions, including the Olympics, and remains focused on winning.
The story underscores the resilience and determination of wounded veterans who discover hope and purpose through sports and camaraderie, particularly at events like the Invictus Games. These gatherings provide a platform for veterans to showcase their strength and determination in overcoming adversity, serving as a source of inspiration and support for their fellow servicemen and women.
