Nojim Maiyegun, Nigeria’s first Olympic medallist who won bronze in boxing at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, has passed away, marking the end of a historic era in Nigerian sports.
On Monday, at the age of 85, Nojim Maiyegun passed away and Nigeria grieves for its inaugural Olympic medal winner.
After relocating from Nigeria to Vienna, Austria where he lived for several years, the ex-boxer who immortalized himself by clinching a bronze medal at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics passed away.
Several sources have confirmed the passing of Maiyegun due to natural causes. These sources reported that he had suffered from a prolonged illness leading up to his death.
Over the last half year, the renowned pugilist had been admitted to and discharged from medical facilities frequently. The days prior to his demise were marked by a deterioration of his health status, predominantly in terms of worsening visual abilities.
Stephen Ogboh, a Nigerian living in Austria and acquainted with Maiyegun, confirmed to Sports Village Square the grievous news of his passing.
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Just days following the commemoration of his triumph on August 10, 1964 – securing Nigeria’s inaugural Olympic medal in the light middleweight category at the Tokyo Olympics and obtaining a bronze alongside Józef Grzesiak from Poland after they were beaten in semifinals- Maiyegun has passed away.
During that period, there was no provision for a third-place fight in the Olympic tradition. Instead, both semi-final losers were given bronze medals.
Nigeria’s 12-year drought of Olympic medals, which started with their first participation at the Helsinki 1952 Games, was finally ended by Maiyegun’s spectacular performance in Tokyo. This achievement not only secured Nigeria its inaugural Olympic medal but also served as a source of inspiration for future generations of Nigerian athletes to strive towards success on the international platform.
After his significant achievement, Nigeria secured three silver medals and two extra bronze medals in succeeding Olympic Games.
Nojim Maiyegun’s departure signifies the conclusion of a significant chapter in Nigerian sports. Nevertheless, his remarkable contributions continue to be a profound source of national pride as he opened doors for numerous athletes who emulated his footsteps.
Maiyegun’s legacy will endure as he was the trailblazer who introduced Nigeria to its initial experience of Olympic success.
