By EFFANGA OSOK

Iquaibom Flies Nigeria’s Flag as Lone Official at World Weightlifting Championships

AKWA Ibom-born weightlifting official Lawrence Iquaibom will represent Nigeria as an International Technical Official (ITO) at the 2026 International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) World Championships in Ningbo, China.

The competition will run from 27 October to 8 November. Notably, Iquaibom is the only Nigerian official selected for the global event, marking another milestone in his international career.

Fourth International Assignment in 2026

The appointment will take Iquaibom to his fourth international competition this year. His previous assignments included the Junior World Championships and Senior African Championships in Egypt, as well as the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland.

Consequently, the latest selection further expands his experience in international weightlifting officiating and administration.

The retired director in the Akwa Ibom State civil service departed Uyo for Lagos on Thursday 22 October, ahead of his scheduled journey to China.

Iquaibom Commends Akwa Ibom Government

Before his departure, Iquaibom expressed gratitude to Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, for his administration’s support for sports development.

He praised the governor’s efforts to create an environment where sports professionals and administrators could improve their skills, contribute to their disciplines and represent Nigeria at international competitions.

According to Iquaibom, sustained institutional support remains essential to sports development. He stressed that officials and administrators play important roles in organising competitions and strengthening the governance of their respective sports.

He also acknowledged the contributions of the state Commissioner for Sports, Elder Paul Bassey, whom he commended for supporting sports development in Akwa Ibom.

Furthermore, Iquaibom said the encouragement he had received through the state government and the Ministry of Sports continued to motivate him to perform his duties and pursue further achievements internationally.

Officials to Arrive Before Opening Day

The championships will take place in Ningbo, a city in Zhejiang Province, China. Under the schedule provided, appointed officials are expected to arrive on 25 October, while the Technical Officials’ Meeting is scheduled for 26 October.

The competition will then begin on 27 October and conclude on 8 November, with officials expected to depart China on 9 November.

Iquaibom’s selection gives Nigeria representation among the technical personnel supporting the event. At the same time, it highlights Akwa Ibom’s contribution to developing sports officials with experience on the international stage.

As preparations for the championships continue, the Nigerian official will take on his latest assignment at one of weightlifting’s major global competitions.