Chioma Ajunwa-Oparah, the first black African woman to win an Olympic Gold medal in a field event, has been nominated for the prestigious Mother Africa Merit Award. The ceremony will take place on July 29, 2023, at the Airport Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos.
Chioma’s accomplishments go beyond her Olympic victory in Atlanta in 1996. She is the only woman to have competed both in the FIFA Women’s World Cup as a footballer and in the Olympics as a track and field athlete, a remarkable achievement.
In addition to her sporting success, Chioma has established herself as a distinguished security agent, holding the position of Deputy Commissioner of Police in the Nigeria Police Force.
The Director of MAMA Honours and Editor-in-Chief of Royal International magazine, High Chief Darlinghtyn Momoh Umoru, expressed admiration for Chioma’s remarkable achievements and emphasized her significant contributions to Nigeria and Africa. The Royal International is delighted to honor Chioma with the MAMA award, recognizing her indelible impact.
High Chief Umoru also announced other notable women who will be honored at the event, including Dame Dr. Esther Uduehi (PDP BoT member), Barr. Efunronke Koku (NFSC), Amb. Rev. Henrietta Dennis-Jacobs, Dr. Chioma Ibezim, and Mrs. Folashsade Awe, among others.
Chief Darlinghtyn Umoru praised all the recipients of the 2023 edition of the MAMA award, describing them as distinguished women who have brought great pride to Africa and Nigeria through their remarkable achievements in various fields.