Athletics
“I Wasn’t Even Expecting Gold” – Ugoh Tejiri Reflects on Historic 400m Triumph at Dakar 2026
Nigeria’s 400m champion, Ugoh Tejiri Praise, has revealed that she never expected to win gold at the 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, Senegal, admitting that she had initially hoped to secure a silver or bronze medal.
Speaking in an interview monitored by Sports247 in Dakar after her historic victory, the Nigerian athlete expressed excitement at exceeding her expectations and returning home with the gold medal.
“I wasn’t expecting the gold. I was praying for silver or bronze. But I knew I must go home with a medal. And God did it — I’m going back home with GOLD,” Ugoh said.
The 17-year-old produced an outstanding performance in the women’s 400m final, clocking a personal best of 52.76 seconds to claim the gold medal and add another remarkable achievement to Nigeria’s athletics campaign.
Reflecting on the moment, Ugoh explained that she had initially celebrated the success of a fellow competitor while hoping to secure a podium finish herself. However, the final outcome exceeded her expectations.
“I celebrated my colleague and I prayed for bronze or silver, but God gave me gold. I am so happy. It’s a double win for me and Nigeria,” she added.
The Nigerian also acknowledged the contribution of her coach, expressing gratitude for the belief and confidence shown in her ability to compete in the 400m event.
“I give thanks to my coach, who believed in me for the 400m,” she said.
Ugoh’s triumph was particularly significant for Nigeria, as it added to the country’s impressive athletics performance in Dakar. Her gold medal followed earlier victories by Rosemary Nwankwo in the girls’ 100m and Gift Bright in the boys’ 100m, giving Nigeria three athletics gold medals at the Games.
For Ugoh, the victory represents more than an individual achievement. It is a moment of personal fulfilment, national pride and recognition of the hard work behind her development as an athlete.
From hoping for a bronze or silver to standing on top of the podium, the Nigerian 400m queen has delivered a memorable performance in Dakar.
The post “I Wasn’t Even Expecting Gold” – Ugoh Tejiri Reflects on Historic 400m Triumph at Dakar 2026 appeared first on Sports247 Nigeria.