World Junior Taekwondo Championship: Alegu Begins Medal Hunt in Uzbekistan

By Amaechi Agbo

President of the Nigeria Taekwondo Federation, Grand Master Tayo Popoola, has commended the leadership of the National Sports Commission (NSC) for its support in ensuring Nigeria’s rising star, Solomon Alegu, competes at the World Junior Taekwondo Championship in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.
Speaking through the NTF media team, Popoola praised the Commission’s dynamic and resourceful leadership, noting that its proactive approach is helping to reposition sports in the country.
“There is a new drive in our sports, and it is a result of intelligent and proactive leadership that has taken Nigerian sports to the next level,” she said.
She highlighted that Alegu’s journey to the global stage was made possible through the Commission’s initiative, which earlier facilitated his participation at the Youth Games in Angola in December last year.
“It was through the National Sports Commission programme that took Solomon to the Youth Games in Angola, and today he has the opportunity to compete at the World Junior Championship,” she added.
Popoola further revealed that the federation received encouragement and strong backing from the Commission as Alegu and his coach prepared for the championship.
“We reached out to them as our athlete and coach prepared for this World Junior Taekwondo Championship, and we got their support.
This serves as great inspiration to us as a federation,” she stated.
Expressing confidence in the young athlete, Popoola recalled Alegu’s impressive performance at the African Junior Championships in Luanda, Angola, where he secured a bronze medal in the -59kg category.
“We believe in his capacity, which is why he was selected to compete and showcase the never-say-die spirit of Nigeria,” she said.
She also noted that it has been a while since Nigeria last competed at this level, but expressed optimism about Alegu’s chances.
“It’s been a long time since we participated at this level, but I can assure you that Solomon will make a strong impact from his very first fight,” she added.
Solomon Alegu’s quest for a podium finish in the -59kg category at the World Junior Taekwondo Championship in Uzbekistan begins tomorrow, as he faces Yeun Awenm of the Netherlands. The competition is scheduled to run through Friday, April 17, 2026.