With just 30 days remaining until the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, President of the Nigeria Weightlifting Federation (NWF), Dr. Ibrahim Alade Abdul, has expressed confidence in the readiness of Nigeria’s weightlifters, describing the athletes as focused, highly motivated and steadily improving in camp.
The nation’s top lifters are currently undergoing an intensive training programme at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja as preparations gather momentum for the multi-sport event.
Speaking on the progress of the camp, Dr. Abdul revealed that the athletes have demonstrated remarkable commitment and discipline since the programme commenced on June 9, adding that the federation is pleased with the positive atmosphere and visible development within the squad.
“The camp is progressing very well and the athletes are in high spirits. We are pleased with the level of commitment, discipline and hard work we have seen from everyone involved,” Dr. Abdul said.
The first phase of camping has brought together 20 athletes and four coaches, with sessions focused on technical refinement, strength development, conditioning, recovery and competition simulations designed to prepare the lifters for the challenges of the Commonwealth Games.
Among the athletes currently in camp are Ruth Asuquo, Joseph Edidiong Umuafia, Sammy Cosmos, Rafiatu Lawal, Taiwo Liadi, Mary Osijo, Fathia Owoyele, Ruth Ayodele, Favour Agboro, Adedapo Opadeji, Emmanuela Edim and Abayomi Adeyemi.
Others include Didih Onome, Goodnews Obodo, Islamiyat Yusuf, Esther Adebayo, Goodnews Jacob, Precious Asadu and Marvelous Ibe.
The coaching crew comprises Sefiya Onubaye, Ruth Odunrinde, Luke Ibe and Young Peter Njoku.
According to NWF Technical Director Sefiya Onubaye, the athletes have embraced the demanding programme with enthusiasm as they compete for places on Team Nigeria’s final roster for Glasgow.
“The atmosphere in camp has remained positive, with the athletes showing high levels of commitment, discipline and determination as they battle for places in Team Nigeria,” Onubaye noted.
The Abuja camp is scheduled to conclude on July 1, after which a final contingent of nine athletes and two coaches will depart Nigeria on July 2 for Aberdeen, Scotland, where the final phase of preparations will begin on July 3.
Dr. Abdul emphasized the importance of the overseas training tour, describing it as a crucial stage that will allow the athletes to acclimatise, sharpen their techniques and fine-tune their preparations ahead of competition.
“The movement from Abuja to Aberdeen will further strengthen the team’s readiness. This phase is very important as it will help the athletes acclimatise and put the finishing touches to their preparations,” he added.
The federation president also commended the National Sports Commission (NSC), led by Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko and Director General Bukola Olopade, for supporting the weightlifting programme and ensuring the timely approval of both the local camping exercise and the overseas training tour.
“We appreciate the National Sports Commission for its support and commitment to the preparation of our athletes. The timely approval of the local camp and the training tour in Scotland has given us confidence that the team will be adequately prepared,” Dr. Abdul stated.
Looking ahead to Glasgow, the NWF boss expressed optimism that Nigeria’s weightlifters would rise to the occasion and improve on their impressive showing at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, where Team Nigeria secured six medals — two gold, one silver and three bronze.
“We have quality lifters in camp and I believe they will rise to the occasion when it matters most. I am optimistic that the athletes who eventually represent Nigeria will give a very good account of themselves in Scotland,” he concluded.
As the countdown to Glasgow enters its final month, expectations remain high that Nigeria’s weightlifting team can build on its proud Commonwealth Games tradition and deliver another memorable performance on the international stage.
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