Nigeria Shines at World Para Powerlifting Championships in Cairo

Nigeria’s para powerlifting team delivered an impressive performance at the World Para Powerlifting Championships in Cairo, Egypt, finishing second overall with 20 medals, including eight golds, seven silvers, and five bronzes. China secured the top spot with 21 medals.

The Director General of the Nigeria Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade, praised the athletes for their resilience and national pride. Folashade Oluwafemiayo stood out, breaking her own world record by lifting 168kg in the women’s over-86kg category to win gold, surpassing her previous mark of 167kg set at the Paris 2024 Paralympics. This marked her fourth world title and extended her dominance in the sport globally.

The President of the Paralympic Committee of Nigeria, Sunday Odebode, commended the commission’s leadership for supporting para sports, noting that the athletes’ performance reflects renewed confidence and motivation.

The 11th edition of the championships, held from October 9 to 18, also marked the first time the World Para Powerlifting Championships were hosted in Africa. Nigeria’s para athletes are now preparing for the West African Para Soccer Tournament in Lagos.