Nigeria Weightlifting Federation (NWF) has intensified preparations for the 2026 Commonwealth Games with the invitation of 20 competitors to camp in Abuja, where they will receive strength conditioning to improve their performances.
Sports247 reports that this was revealed by the president of Nigeria Weightlifting Federation (NWF), Dr Ibrahim Abdul is excited that the camp officially opened on Tuesday at Package B of Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.
Dr Abdul pointed out that the camp is the first phase of Nigeria’s full-fledged preparations for the forthcoming Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland.
He enthused that the camp is also expected to provide an opportunity for the nation’s top lifters to sharpen their skills, improve fitness levels, and compete for places in Team Nigeria.
A press release by the NWF revealed that the list of invited athletes includes an array of Commonwealth and international competitors drawn from various states across the country.
Akwa Ibom State contributes Nyong Ruth Asuquo, Joseph Umoafia Edidiong, and Sammy Cosmos, while Oyo State is represented by Rafiatu Afolashade Lawal, Taiwo Liadi, Mary Taiwo Osijo, and Fathia Owoyele.
Bayelsa State has the largest contingent with Ruth Imoleayo Ayodele, Favour Omovigho Agboro, Adedapo Adeleke Opadeji, Lucky Joseph, Emmanuela Edim, and Abayomi Adeyemi making the list.
Lagos State athletes include Didih Onome Omolola and Goodnews Obodo, while Osun State’s Yusuf Islamiyat, Edo State’s Esther Adebola Adebayo and Goodnews Jacob, Kaduna State’s Precious Nnenna Asadu, and FCT Abuja’s Marvelous Chidirim Ibe complete the roster.
The federation also invited four experienced coaches to oversee the athletes’ development during the camping exercise. They are Onubaye Sefiya Ahuoiza who also doubles as the NWF technical director, Ruth Odunrinde, Luke Ibeh, and Young Peter Njoku.
Abdul threw more light on the camp’s commencement and expressed confidence in the country’s preparations as well as the quality of lifters invited to camp.
“This camp marks the beginning of our deliberate preparations towards the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. We have assembled some of the country’s finest weightlifters and coaches, and our objective is to build a highly competitive team capable of winning medals for Nigeria.
“The federation is committed to providing the athletes with the right environment and support needed to achieve success on the international stage,” Abdul declared.
The NWF boss added that the camp will play a crucial role in building a formidable team capable of challenging for medals at the Commonwealth Games.
“The athletes are expected to undergo intensive technical, tactical, and strength-conditioning programmes designed to enhance performance and prepare them for the rigours of international competition,” Abdul affirmed.
Sports247 adds that expectations are high that the camp will help produce a team capable of maintaining Nigeria’s Commonwealth Games’ weightlifting records at Glasgow 2026.
