The president of Nigeria Weightlifting Federation (NWF), Dr. Ibrahim Abdul has reflected on the recent continental championship and declared that he is happy to announce that the country remains a major force in Africa.
Sports247 reports that Dr Abdul spoke against the backdrop of a sterling outing at the African Senior Weightlifting Championships in Ismailia, Egypt, where a confirmation came that Nigerians can excel with proper preparation, support and motivation.
He noted that Nigeria’s contingent of 10 athletes delivered one of the country’s most impressive outings on the continental stage, winning a total of 29 medals made up of 14 gold, 13 silver and two bronze medals during the championship.
Much to Abdul’s delight, the contingent, which was guided by three officials – Apeh Melvina Ashinedu, Sefiya Onubaye and Christopher Nwadei – also showed immense discipline during the competition from May 10th to 17th.
From a pool of 19 countries that took part in the championship, hosts Egypt topped the final medals table with 19 gold, 18 silver and five bronze medals, while Nigeria secured second spot with 14 gold, 13 silver and two bronze medals.
Tunisia placed third overall with eight gold, two silver and 16 bronze medals, Madagascar finished fourth with six gold and two silver medals, while Mauritius occupied fifth position with one gold and two silver medals.
Despite competing with only four athletes in the men’s category, Nigeria still secured a commendable fourth-place finish with two gold, seven silver and two bronze medals, while the women topped their category with 12 gold and six silver.
Reacting to the team’s performance, Abdul thanked top shots of National Sports Commission (NSC) for their support, then praised the commitment, discipline and fighting spirit displayed by Nigeria’s weightlifters throughout the competition.
Abdul averred, “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.
“We are deeply grateful to the National Sports Commission for creating an enabling environment for our athletes to excel. The support from Mallam Shehu Dikko and Bukola Olopade gave the athletes confidence and motivation.
“With adequate preparations, proper welfare and continuous encouragement from stakeholders, Nigerian sports can compete favourably anywhere in the world. The future of weightlifting and indeed Nigerian sports is very bright.”
