The Nigeria Weightlifting Federation (NWF) has celebrated Team Nigeria’s outstanding performance at the 2026 African Senior Weightlifting Championships in Ismailia, Egypt, after the country returned home with an impressive total of 29 medals.
Nigeria’s contingent of 10 athletes and three officials delivered one of the nation’s strongest performances on the continental stage, finishing the championship with 14 gold, 13 silver, and 2 bronze medals during the competition held from May 10 to May 17, 2026.
Reacting to the remarkable outing, NWF President Ibrahim Abdul praised the athletes for their courage, resilience, discipline, and determination throughout the championship.
“This performance is a clear statement that Nigeria remains a major force in African weightlifting. Our athletes showed courage, determination, and excellence against the best on the continent,” Dr. Abdul stated.
The NWF President further stressed that the success recorded in Egypt proves Nigerian sports can compete strongly on the global stage with proper preparation, support, and motivation.
“The result from Egypt proves that with adequate preparations, proper welfare, and continuous encouragement from stakeholders, Nigerian sports can compete favourably anywhere in the world,” he added.
Dr. Abdul also expressed appreciation to the National Sports Commission (NSC) led by Chairman Shehu Dikko and Director General Bukola Olopade for their continued support toward sports development in Nigeria.
According to him, the support from the NSC leadership provided confidence and motivation for the athletes ahead of the championship.
Nigeria’s women weightlifters once again dominated the continent by finishing first overall in the women’s category with 12 gold and 6 silver medals.
In the women’s events, Ruth Asuquo Nyong secured three gold medals in the 48kg category after lifting a combined total of 167kg, while Onome Omolola Didih also claimed three gold medals in the 53kg division with a total lift of 192kg.
Commonwealth champion Rafiatu Folashade Lawal maintained her dominance in the 58kg category, winning another three gold medals with a combined lift of 215kg.
Liadi Taiwo added three more gold medals in the 77kg category, while Ruth Imoleayo Ayodele and Mary Osijo both contributed silver medals to Nigeria’s impressive tally.
In the men’s category, Favour Omovigho Agboro won one gold and two silver medals in the 65kg division, while Edidiong Joseph Umoafia also secured one gold and two silver medals in the 71kg class.
Adedapo Adeleke Opadeji earned three silver medals in the 79kg category, while Lucky Joseph wrapped up Nigeria’s campaign with two bronze medals in the +110kg division.
Nigeria eventually finished second overall on the medals table behind hosts Egypt, who topped the standings with 19 gold medals, while Tunisia finished third.
The performance in Egypt further highlights Nigeria’s growing strength in international weightlifting and reinforces the country’s status as one of Africa’s leading sporting nations.
Team Nigeria’s contingent is expected back in the country on Monday, May 18, following the successful championship outing in Egypt.
