Nigeria’s weightlifting contingent has emerged as a dominant force at the African Senior Weightlifting Championship in Mauritius, amassing a remarkable collection of medals and solidifying their position atop the medal standings. With the competition drawing to a close, Team Nigeria boasts a stunning haul of 10 gold, four silver, and one bronze medal, a testament to their exceptional prowess and unwavering dedication. The Nigerian lifters’ outstanding performances have not only brought individual glory but have also underscored the nation’s burgeoning strength in the sport of weightlifting on the continental stage.
Among the standout performers for Team Nigeria were Rafiatu Lawal and Didih Onome, both of whom delivered breathtaking displays of strength and technique. Lawal, competing in the 59kg category, showcased her dominance by sweeping all three gold medals, leaving no doubt about her superior abilities. Onome, in the 55kg category, mirrored Lawal’s success, also securing three gold medals with remarkable ease. Their achievements served as inspiring testaments to their rigorous training, unwavering focus, and the unwavering support they received from the Nigerian weightlifting federation and the National Sports Commission (NSC). Ruth Ayodele, competing in the women’s 64kg category, further bolstered Nigeria’s gold medal count with a commanding performance. She lifted a total of 213kg, comprising a 93kg snatch and a 120kg clean & jerk, securing three gold medals and adding to Nigeria’s impressive medal tally.
Lawal, a 2022 Commonwealth Games gold medalist, expressed her elation and gratitude for the support she received, stating, “I came here prepared, and I knew I had to give it everything. The support from the federation and the National Sports Commission has been incredible, it gave us the edge. This gold is for Nigeria.” Her words resonated with the sentiment of national pride and the collective effort that propelled the Nigerian team to success. Onome echoed Lawal’s sentiments, dedicating her medals to the nation and acknowledging the instrumental role played by Dr. Ibrahim Abdul and the NSC in inspiring and motivating the athletes. Their combined success has illuminated the bright future of Nigerian weightlifting and has inspired a new generation of aspiring athletes to pursue their dreams with unwavering determination.
Beyond the remarkable achievements of Lawal and Onome, other Nigerian lifters also contributed significantly to the nation’s medal count. Edidiong Joseph, competing in the 73kg category, secured one gold and two silver medals, highlighting the depth of talent within the Nigerian weightlifting squad. Tuesday Emmanuel added two silver and one bronze medal to the nation’s tally, further solidifying Nigeria’s dominance in the competition. These collective contributions cemented Nigeria’s position as a leading force in African weightlifting.
As the African Senior Weightlifting Championship neared its conclusion, Nigeria’s campaign was set to end on Friday evening with Omolola Matthew and Sarah Ovayioza still in action. Their participation represented the final opportunity for Nigeria to add to their already impressive medal haul and further solidify their position at the top of the medal standings. The performances of Matthew and Ovayioza were highly anticipated, adding an element of suspense and excitement to the final stages of the competition.
In a gesture of appreciation and encouragement, Bukola Olopade, Director General of the NSC, announced an incentive package for each medal won by the Nigerian lifters. This financial reward served as a tangible recognition of their hard work, dedication, and exceptional achievements. Furthermore, Olopade announced the upgrade of four lifters to Category A of the Elite Athletes Programme, which includes a training grant of $20,000, with an initial payment of $5,000 scheduled for the following week. This initiative demonstrates the NSC’s commitment to nurturing and supporting its elite athletes, providing them with the resources necessary to excel on the international stage. The combined effect of these incentives and support systems has created a positive and motivating environment for Nigerian weightlifters, empowering them to reach their full potential and continue to bring glory to their nation.
