Nigerian powerlifting star Ogungbure Blessing Adebimpe has reflected on her journey to success after winning gold in the 76kg category and being crowned Best Female Overall Athlete of the competition from a remarkable performance at the 1st Central African Zone Powerlifting Championship in Yaoundé, Cameroon.
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Competing at a body weight of 72.8kg in the 76kg division, Blessing delivered an outstanding performance that earned her one of the tournament’s highest individual honors while contributing to Nigeria’s impressive showing on the continental stage.
Speaking exclusively with Sports247Naija, the champion described the achievement as both emotional and motivating.
“It feels amazing and humbling,” she said. “Representing Nigeria and bringing home a gold medal while also being named Best Female Overall is a dream come true.
I’m grateful for the support I’ve received and proud to have contributed to Nigeria’s success. This achievement motivates me to keep pushing for even greater heights.”
Despite competing below the maximum weight limit of her category, Blessing revealed that her focus remained on execution rather than physical comparisons with opponents.
“Being 72.8kg in the 76kg category didn’t bother me. My strategy was to stay composed, compete smart, and rely on my strength and technique,” she explained.
The road to success, however, was far from straightforward. The Nigerian athlete acknowledged the physical and mental demands of preparing for a major international championship.
“The preparation wasn’t always easy. There were physical and mental challenges, but I stayed disciplined, trusted the process, and kept working towards the competition,” she said.
While winning gold was her primary target, the Best Female Overall Award added an extra layer of significance to the accomplishment.
“The gold medal was my primary goal, but the Best Female Overall Award made the achievement even more meaningful. It was an unexpected recognition that showed my efforts truly stood out.”
Blessing also used the opportunity to encourage aspiring athletes, particularly young women interested in powerlifting.
“My message to young Nigerian athletes, especially females, is to believe in themselves and never let stereotypes or limitations define their dreams.
Powerlifting rewards discipline, consistency, and hard work. There will be challenges, but if you stay committed, trust the process, and remain focused on your goals, success will come.”
With a continental title and individual honors now added to her growing résumé, Blessing Ogungbure Adebimpe continues to establish herself as one of Nigeria’s leading powerlifting talents and a source of inspiration for the next generation.
