DELTA State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has congratulated 16-year-old Oghenegaren Esiovwa-Thompson on his historic gold medal victory at the Commonwealth Fencing Championships in Lagos.

Esiovwa-Thompson, an indigene of Osubi in Okpe Local Government Area of Delta State, made history by winning Nigeria’s first-ever gold medal in the men’s Under-23 epee event at the championship.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, Governor Oborevwori described the young fencer’s achievement as remarkable, noting that it had brought honour and pride to Delta State and Nigeria.

The Governor commended Esiovwa-Thompson for his exceptional talent, determination and composure, particularly his ability to overcome more experienced opponents on his way to the historic victory.

Competing for Nigeria for the first time after switching allegiance from England, the 16-year-old delivered an impressive performance, defeating three Indian opponents en route to the final.

He sealed the historic victory with a commanding 15-5 win over Asian champion Lokesh Verma of India in the final. India’s Godwin Natarajan and Ashwini Shaurya won the bronze medals.

Esiovwa-Thompson had earlier gone unbeaten in Pool 4 to earn a bye into the round of 16. He subsequently defeated South Africa’s Mathobela 15-7 before overcoming an Indian opponent 15-2 in the quarter-final.

In the semi-final, he defeated another Indian contender, Ashwini Shaurya, 15-11 to book his place in the final.

Governor Oborevwori said the achievement demonstrated the potential of young Deltans when given the right environment, encouragement and opportunities to excel.

He commended the athlete’s family, coaches and others who had contributed to his development, urging the young fencer to remain focused and continue pursuing greater accomplishments on the international stage.

The Governor assured that his administration would continue to support initiatives aimed at promoting youth development and sporting excellence, noting that the achievements of young athletes such as Esiovwa-Thompson would inspire other Deltan youths.

Oborevwori wished the young fencer more victories and greater laurels in his sporting career, urging him to remain a worthy ambassador of Delta State and Nigeria.