Rafiatu Lawal Strikes Triple Gold For Nigeria At Islamic Solidarity Games
By ALIYU AMINU ABUBAKAR ABDULLAHI (A.A.A.A.) SHEHU
NIGERIA’S Rafiatu Folashade Lawal proved her dominance once again on the international stage, winning three gold medals in the women’s 58kg weightlifting event at the 6th Islamic Solidarity Games in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Sunday.
Lawal, one of Africa’s most decorated female lifters, delivered a flawless performance — sweeping gold in the snatch, clean and jerk, and total lift categories. Her powerful lifts and technical precision left the crowd in awe as she outclassed Niogora Abdullaeva of Uzbekistan and Noura Essam of Egypt, who settled for silver and bronze respectively.
The victory further cements Lawal’s reputation as a serial champion and global contender. Her triple triumph in Riyadh adds to her growing medal collection, coming just months after she captured three silver medals at the World Weightlifting Championships, where she competed against some of the world’s best.
Speaking after her victory, Lawal dedicated her medals to Team Nigeria and her coaches, expressing gratitude for the support that has fueled her rise. “Every lift represents years of sacrifice, discipline, and belief in myself. I’m proud to raise Nigeria’s flag high once again,” she said.
Her performance not only boosted Nigeria’s medal tally at the Games but also underscored the country’s growing influence in international weightlifting circles.
