Oran 2026: NSC Applauds Contingent as Nigeria Finishes as First Runners-Up at African Open Para Powerlifting Championships

Team Nigeria delivered another commanding performance on the continent, finishing as first runners-up, at the 2026 African Open Para Powerlifting Championships in Oran, Algeria.
The team garnered a total of 49 medals comprising 32 gold, 12 silver and 5 bronze medals.

Director General of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, praised the team for their resilience, discipline and patriotism throughout the competition, describing the team’s achievement as another proud moment for Nigerian sports.

“This team once again demonstrated the true Nigerian spirit of excellence and determination,” he said, noting that their performance has continued to inspire millions of Nigerians and further elevate the country’s image globally.

“I commend the athletes, coaches and officials for their commitment and sacrifices. We want to assure our Sports Federations of the Commission’s continued support,as championed by the Federal Government’s renewed commitment to sports development and our athletes.”

Across four days of intense competition featuring elite para powerlifters from Africa and beyond, Nigeria showcased strength, technical superiority and championship mentality in several categories.

The country’s medal haul of 32 gold medals placed Nigeria among the top two performing nations at the championship and highlighted the depth of talent within the nation’s para sports system.

The championship attracted more than 150 athletes from about 20 countries, including top para powerlifting nations such as Egypt, Algeria, Iran, Iraq and Jordan.

At the close of competition, Egypt topped the medals table with 84 medals made up of 47 gold, 28 silver and 9 bronze medals, while Nigeria secured second position with 49 medals. Host nation Algeria finished third with 20 gold, 34 silver and 23 bronze medals.