Nigeria Weightlifting Federation President, Dr. Ibrahim Abdul, has expressed strong optimism about the future of Nigerian weightlifting following the outstanding performances at the Ogun 2024 National Sports Festival.
He believes the festival continues to serve as an essential platform for discovering new talent that can develop into national and international champions.
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Speaking to Sports247 at the conclusion of the weightlifting events held at the NYSC Orientation Camp in Shagamu, Dr. Abdul said, “We saw new discoveries and some young lifters who are capable of excelling in future competitions with proper grooming and monitoring.”
Team Bayelsa showcased remarkable dominance by sweeping nine gold medals on the final day of competition, cementing their position as leaders in the sport.
Other states, including Delta, Edo, and Kano, also made strong showings across the five contested weight categories.
Standout athletes included Caroline Albert of Bayelsa, who claimed three gold medals in the Women’s +87kg category, and Desmond Akano of Delta, who successfully defended his triple gold in the Men’s 96kg class.
Notably, Dr. Benjamin Idiakheua Agboghidi from Edo earned three silver medals despite recently returning from an overseas course, highlighting the depth of talent discovered at the festival.
Dr. Abdul emphasized that these discoveries represent a vital pipeline of athletes for the federation’s long-term plans.
“We have listed some impressive names through our Technical Department and will work closely with their states to ensure they continue progressing,” he said.
He also called on the Nigeria Weightlifting Federation and relevant authorities to sustain and increase support for the National Sports Festival, acknowledging its critical role in nurturing future champions.
“This festival is crucial for discovering champions and building the future of Nigerian sports. We urge that it continues to be prioritized and supported,” Dr. Abdul added.
With the successful conclusion of the weightlifting events at Ogun 2024, the federation is confident that Nigeria’s next generation of weightlifting stars has begun to emerge, ready to elevate the nation on the global stage.
