Nigeria’s Onome Didih Omolola has expressed her delight after winning a sensational gold medal in the women’s 53kg weightlifting event at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, describing the achievement as a dream come true in her debut appearance at the Games.
The Nigerian weightlifter delivered one of the most dominant performances of the competition, breaking both the Commonwealth Record multiple times on her way to the top of the podium.
Didih opened the competition by setting a new Commonwealth Games record in the snatch before raising the bar with every successful attempt.
She eventually finished with remarkable lifts of 93kg in the Snatch, 113kg in the Clean & Jerk, and a 206kg Total, with each mark standing as both a new Commonwealth Games and Commonwealth record.
Speaking after her historic triumph, the elated champion said she was overwhelmed with joy to secure her first Commonwealth Games gold medal.
“I am pleased with my performance and truly humbled to win my first Commonwealth Games gold medal.
This being my first Commonwealth Games appearance makes this achievement even more special,” she said.
Didih also revealed the emotional significance of the moment when Nigeria’s national anthem echoed around the arena following her victory.
“It was a very emotional moment when our flag went up with the National Anthem in the arena. It made me realize that I have fulfilled the promise I made to my mother.”
The gold medallist paid tribute to those who contributed to her success, thanking her coaches, particularly Coach Ene, the Nigeria Weightlifting Federation, the National Sports Commission, and her teammates for their unwavering support throughout her journey.
She also reserved special appreciation for her family.
“I would like to thank my coaches, especially Coach Ene, the entire support from the Nigeria Weightlifting Federation, the National Sports Commission, and my fellow teammates who stood by me throughout this journey.”
” Their unwavering support and belief continue to inspire me to give my best for my country. A special thanks to my father and my entire family, who continually pray for me whenever I compete.”
Didih’s outstanding performance added another gold medal to Team Nigeria’s impressive campaign in Glasgow, further underlining the country’s strength in weightlifting at the Commonwealth Games while announcing herself as one of the sport’s brightest stars on the international stage.
