Nigerian weightlifting star Edidiong Joseph Omuoafia has declared that nothing short of a gold medal will satisfy him at the 2026 Commonwealth Games, vowing to reward the National Sports Commission (NSC) for its investment in Team Nigeria’s preparations.
Competing in the men’s 73kg category, Omuoafia said the improved training programme and overseas preparation camp organised by the NSC have boosted his confidence ahead of one of the biggest competitions of his career.
Team Nigeria’s weightlifters have been camping in Aberdeen, Scotland, as part of their final build-up to the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, with the commission providing enhanced facilities and support in a bid to improve the country’s medal haul.
“I’m grateful to the National Sports Commission for everything they’ve done for us. The preparation has been excellent, and my goal is to repay that support by winning a gold medal for Nigeria,” Omuoafia said.
The Nigerian lifter has emerged as one of the country’s brightest prospects in weightlifting, consistently impressing in national and international competitions while establishing himself as a strong contender in the 73kg division.
Omuoafia believes the exposure and quality of preparation received ahead of the Games have placed him in a strong position to compete against the best lifters in the Commonwealth.
“Every athlete dreams of standing on top of the podium. That’s what I’m working towards, and I’ll give everything I have to make Nigeria proud,” he added.
Weightlifting has traditionally been one of Team Nigeria’s strongest medal-winning sports at major international competitions, with the country enjoying sustained success at the Commonwealth Games over the years.
The weightlifting events at the 2026 Commonwealth Games are expected to feature some of the best athletes from across the Commonwealth, with Omuoafia aiming to add his name to Nigeria’s growing list of champions in the sport.
