Sofiat Yakubu of the Lagos boxing team has advanced to the finals in the 42kg category at the 8th National Youth Games in Asaba. She secured her spot in the finals after defeating Akinyemi Omotolani of Ogun State.
This is Sofiat’s first appearance at the National Youth Games. She shared her journey with Sports247, expressing her excitement and determination.
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“Since the day my coach told me that I was attending the youth games, I was just excited, and looked for every possible means to win my trial.
After that, we went to camp, training in the morning and evening. Although I was tired and wanted to relent, my mom and my sister kept pushing me, never to relent.”
Sofiat’s dedication has paid off, as she has won all three of her fights so far, two of which ended in knockouts.
She looks forward to the final fight, confident in her ability to secure the gold medal for Lagos State. “I wish to win the gold medal, 42kg, for Lagos State because we are the champions,” she said.
Winning the gold medal holds significant personal meaning for Sofiat. “It means a lot to me because I promised my mum that I’m going to win the gold medal.
Winning the gold medal will uplift the name of my family, and I promise never to relent in boxing.
After winning the gold medal, it does not mean I am going to relent. I have the belief in myself that I am going to represent my country and win the WBC belt one day.”
As Sofiat prepares for the finals on Wednesday, her determination and the support of her family continue to drive her towards achieving her goals.
