Nigeria records 29-medal haul at African Weightlifting Championship

Team Nigeria finished the 2026 African Senior Weightlifting Championship in Ismailia, Egypt with a total of 29 medals after another strong outing on the final day of the competition.

Nigeria ended the championship with 14 gold, 13 silver and two bronze medals to underline the country’s dominance on the continental stage.

The National Sports Commission hailed the athletes for their performance, describing the outing as another sign of Nigeria’s growing strength in sports.

Chairman of the commission, Shehu Dikko, praised the team for its resilience and discipline throughout the championship.

He said: “This performance is a strong statement that Nigerian sports is moving in the right direction.

“Our athletes have continued to show courage, discipline and excellence whenever they step onto the international stage.

“Winning 29 medals at the African Championship is not just a victory for weightlifting, but a proud moment for the entire nation.”

Director-General of the NSC, Bukola Olopade, also commended the athletes, coaches and officials for the achievement.

He said: “The consistency and dominance displayed by our weightlifters in Egypt clearly reflects the hard work going on behind the scenes.

“This achievement should inspire other athletes across the country to believe that with commitment and proper support, Nigeria can remain a powerhouse in Africa and compete strongly globally.

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“We commend the athletes, coaches and officials for flying the Nigerian flag high.”

Nigeria secured five additional medals on Saturday to conclude the competition.

In the women’s events, the country finished third overall after winning 12 gold and six silver medals.

Ruth Asuquo Nyong claimed three gold medals in the 48kg category, while Onome Omolola Didih also won three gold medals in the 53kg division.

Commonwealth champion Rafiatu Folashade Lawal continued her dominance in the 58kg category with three gold medals, while Liadi Taiwo added another three gold medals in the 77kg class.

Ruth Imoleayo Ayodele secured three silver medals in the 63kg event, while Mary Osijo claimed three silver medals in the 79kg division after lifting 95kg in snatch and 116kg in clean and jerk for a total of 211kg.

In the men’s category, Favour Omovigho Agboro won one gold and two silver medals in the 65kg class.

Edidiong Joseph Umoafia also finished with one gold and two silver medals in the 71kg division.

Adedapo Adeleke Opadeji earned three silver medals in the 79kg category, while Lucky Joseph secured two bronze medals in the +110kg class after lifting a combined total of 315kg.

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