Nigeria’s weightlifting team has stormed to the top of the medal table at the ongoing African Senior Weightlifting Championship, claiming an impressive haul of 7 gold, 4 silver, and 1 bronze medals.
Leading the charge are Rafiatu Lawal and Didih Onome, each securing three gold medals in their respective weight categories. Lawal, a 2022 Commonwealth Games champion, dominated the 59kg event and praised the support from the Federation and National Sports Commission (NSC), saying, “This gold is for Nigeria.”
Onome echoed similar sentiments, dedicating her wins to Dr. Ibrahim Abdul and the NSC for their inspiring leadership.
Other strong performances came from Edidiong Joseph, who earned one gold and two silver medals in the 73kg category, and Tuesday Emmanuel, who contributed two silver and one bronze medal.
More medal opportunities remain, with Omolola Matthew and Sarah Ovayioza yet to complete their events, the latter set to compete on Friday.
Meanwhile, Director General of the National Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade, visited Team Nigeria in Moka, offering a motivational cash incentive of $3,800 to athletes and officials. He also announced that four athletes have been shortlisted into the Elite Athletes Programme, guaranteeing each a $20,000 annual training grant, with an initial $5,000 disbursement next week.
With the championship running until April 28, Team Nigeria is poised to further solidify its dominance in African weightlifting.
