Folashade Oluwafemiayo a Nigerian has just shattered her World Record in the women’s over 86kg Para-Powerlifting, becoming the first Para-athlete to lift 166kg. This surpasses her previous record of 165kg, and she also secured a gold medal with this achievement.
Oluwafemiayo’s remarkable performance contributes to Nigeria’s total of seven Paralympic medals. Her win follows the Super Eagles’ 3-0 victory over Benin Republic in an AFCON qualifier match at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on Saturday.
In other notable events, Nigeria advanced to the Round of 16 in the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup after goals by Amina Bello, Chiamaka Okwuchukwu, Flourish Sabastine, and substitute Joy Igbokwe against Venezuela in Cali on Saturday.
Flora Ugwunwa also achieved a silver medal in the Women’s Javelin F54 category with a throw of 19.26 meters, placing second in a competitive field. Meanwhile, Bose Omolayo lifted 145kg in the Women’s 79kg Para Powerlifting category to earn a silver medal for Nigeria.
Isau Ogunkunle won a bronze medal in the Men’s Singles Class 4 Para Table Tennis event, becoming the first Nigerian to secure an individual medal in Para Table Tennis since the Sydney 2000 Games.
Senator Enoh responded to these accomplishments, stating, “We are immensely proud of our Team Nigeria Paralympic athletes. Bose Omolayo, Flora Ugwunwa, and Isau Ogunkunle have brought us immense pride and joy with their incredible performances on the global stage. Their dedication, resilience, and passion embody the true spirit of Nigeria, and they continue to inspire millions with their remarkable achievements.”
The Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting para-sports and ensuring Nigerian athletes receive the necessary backing to excel internationally. “Our champions have shown once again that disability is not a limitation. As a nation, we remain committed to fostering an inclusive environment where all athletes, regardless of ability, can thrive and make us proud on the global stage.”