Ebonyi State-born Festus Igube has won a bronze medal in the ongoing Invictus Games in Canada.

Igube, who serves with the Nigerian Army, won the first Invictus Games medal for Nigeria.

He won the medal in the men’s 50-meter freestyle swimming event, where he finished as a bronze medalist behind Australia and the US.

The story of Festus Igube is a tale of captivating determination and defiance of mountainous odds.

Born in Ezza North Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, Igube was one of the victims of a fatal ambush launched by Boko Haram insurgents against Nigerian soldiers in one of the deadliest ambushes.

He was counted among the dead for three days before his body was found with some breath and resuscitated. He lost one of his arms in that deadly encounter.

Igube was part of the Nigerian contingent to the Invictus Games in Canada. His medal is the first that Nigeria is winning in the 2025 Invictus Games in Canada and the third medal in Nigeria’s kitty in the history of the Invictus Games, which Nigeria joined in 2022.

President Tinubu is expected to receive the Nigeria contingent in the State House on return to Nigeria.

Already, Ebonyi people have started celebrating the feat of their son and it is hoped that in the usual character of the current administration, Ebonyi State government will equally honour their great son.

Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru has congratulated Igube for making the state and the nation proud.

Governor Nwifuru said he was deeply honoured to extend his warmest congratulations to Igube on his remarkable achievement.

He said, “Winning a bronze medal is a testament to his unassailable determination, resilience, and patriotism for our dear nation, Nigeria.

“Your selfless service to our nation, despite the ultimate sacrifice of losing your hands while fighting against Boko Haram, is a shining example of courage and devotion.”

The governor commended the wounded soldier for his gallantry even while defying physical challenges to clinch the coveted bronze medal.


He added, “Your achievement serves as an inspiration to us all, demonstrating that with unyielding spirit and perseverance, we can overcome even the most daunting challenges.

“Please accept my heartfelt appreciation for your service and my congratulations on this outstanding achievement. You have made Nigeria proud, and we celebrate your triumph.”


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