Nigeria’s Weightlifters Dominate Africa With Massive Medal Haul
Nigeria Shines In Continental Weightlifting Championship
NATIONAL Sports Commission has praised Team Nigeria’s outstanding performance at the 2026 African Senior Weightlifting Championship after the country finished the competition with an impressive haul of 29 medals.
Nigeria ended the championship with 14 gold, 13 silver and two bronze medals, reinforcing its reputation as one of Africa’s strongest forces in weightlifting.
The strong showing in Egypt drew commendation from the Chairman of the commission, Shehu Dikko, who described the athletes’ performances as a reflection of discipline, resilience and growing excellence in Nigerian sports.
According to him, the achievement goes beyond weightlifting, representing a major source of pride for the nation on the international stage.
“This performance is a strong statement that Nigerian sports is moving in the right direction,” Dikko said while applauding the athletes and technical crew for their efforts.
Nigerian Women Lead Medal Charge
Nigeria’s women weightlifters played a major role in the country’s success, finishing third overall in the women’s category with 12 gold and six silver medals.
Ruth Asuquo Nyong delivered one of the standout performances of the tournament after sweeping three gold medals in the 48kg category.
Onome Omolola Didih also dominated the 53kg class with another three gold medals, while Commonwealth champion Rafiatu Folashade Lawal maintained her impressive international form by claiming three gold medals in the 58kg division.
In the 77kg category, Liadi Taiwo added three more gold medals to Nigeria’s tally.
Meanwhile, Ruth Imoleayo Ayodele won three silver medals in the 63kg event, while Mary Osijo contributed three silver medals in the 79kg category.
Men’s Team Adds To Nigeria’s Success
Nigeria’s men also delivered strong performances across several categories.
Favour Omovigho Agboro secured one gold and two silver medals in the 65kg class, while Edidiong Joseph Umoafia recorded a similar feat in the 71kg category.
Adedapo Adeleke Opadeji claimed three silver medals in the 79kg division, while Lucky Joseph rounded off Nigeria’s campaign with two bronze medals in the +110kg event.
Director-General of the commission, Bukola Olopade, said the performance reflects the growing depth and quality of Nigerian athletes across different sports.
He added that the success in Egypt should motivate upcoming athletes and further strengthen Nigeria’s preparations for future continental and global competitions.
