NSC Thumbs Up Weightlifting Team for Exceptional Performance at African Weightlifting Championships
The National Sports Commission has applauded the Nigeria Weightlifting Federation and Team Nigeria athletes for their outstanding performances at the ongoing 2026 African Senior Weightlifting Championships and 16th Mediterranean Cup in Ismailia, Egypt, where Nigerian lifters have already amassed 10 gold and five silver medals after two days of competition.
Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, described the performances as a clear reflection of the renewed commitment to sporting excellence in the country, noting that the athletes have continued to justify the confidence and investments being made in Nigerian sports.
“This exceptional outing by our weightlifters is another proud moment for Nigeria and proof that our athletes can dominate on any stage when given the right support and environment. The consistency, discipline and hunger shown by these athletes are truly commendable. We congratulate the federation, the coaches and the athletes for making the nation proud while also strengthening our prospects ahead of the Commonwealth Games,” Mallam Dikko stated.
Director General, Hon. Bukola Olopade, charged the athletes and officials not to lose focus despite the impressive medal haul, emphasizing the importance of sustaining the momentum as Team Nigeria continues its qualification journey.
“Basking in the euphoria of our multi-sport successes this year, remain focused. Great achievements come with greater responsibility and this is the time for our athletes to stay mentally strong, committed and determined to reach even higher levels. The Commission remains fully committed to supporting every federation and athlete working tirelessly to elevate Nigeria’s image globally,” Olopade said.
Competing in the women’s 48kg division, Ruth Nyong Asuquo swept all three gold medals after lifting 74kg in the snatch, 93kg in the clean and jerk, and recording a combined total of 167kg to finish ahead of athletes from Tunisia and Madagascar.
In the women’s 53kg category, Onome Omolola Didih also secured a clean sweep of three gold medals after lifting 87kg in the snatch, 105kg in the clean and jerk and finishing with an overall total of 192kg.
Rafiat Afolashade Lawal continued Nigeria’s dominance in the women’s 58kg division by winning another three gold medals to further strengthen Team Nigeria’s qualification hopes for the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
Nigeria also recorded impressive performances in the men’s category through Favour Omovigho Agboro, who secured one gold and two silver medals in the men’s 65kg event after lifting 157kg in the clean and jerk to defeat Egypt’s Mohamed Mahmoud Noureldin in that segment.
Ruth Imoleayo Ayodele added to Nigeria’s medal haul with three silver medals in the women’s 63kg category following another spirited performance for Team Nigeria.
The Commission also commended the leadership of the Nigeria Weightlifting Federation under its President, Dr. Ibrahim Abdul, for the continued development of weightlifting in the country and the federation’s commitment to producing elite athletes capable of excelling on the international stage.
Ten Nigerian athletes are representing the country at the championships in Egypt, with the remaining events expected to provide more opportunities for Team Nigeria to increase its medal tally.
