As Nigeria continues to dominate the African Senior Weightlifting Championship, Emmanuel Tuesday, one of the country’s rising talents, has not only added to the medal tally but also delivered a heartfelt message for the future of the sport.
Competing in his first-ever international event, Tuesday rose to the occasion in the 67kg men’s category, earning two silver medals and a bronze with a combined lift of 276kg (130kg snatch, 146kg clean & jerk). But behind his success was a moment of vulnerability that many athletes can relate to.
“It is my first international weightlifting competition, and when I was about to lift, I was scared,” Tuesday revealed in an interview with Sports247. “But I had to summon courage because I know that I have what it takes.”
The young lifter didn’t stop there—he used the global stage to speak out on the urgent need for change back home.
“When I looked at the facility, it was quite different from what we use in Nigeria,” he said. “I’m calling on Nigeria to help us improve our facilities so we can meet international standards. Also, the welfare of athletes must be worked on.”
Tuesday’s honest appeal shines a light on the challenges many Nigerian athletes face despite their international success. His call joins a wave of voices asking for better infrastructure and athlete support to help match their global ambition.
Tuesday’s performance adds to Nigeria’s incredible run at the championship, with 15 medals (10 gold, 4 silver, 1 bronze) already secured by standout stars like Onome Omolola Didih, Rafiatu Lawal, Ruth Ayodele, and Umoafia Edidiong.
With Sarah Ovayioza Matthew set to compete in the final event on Friday, Nigeria is not only chasing more medals—it’s chasing a brighter future for its athletes.
Emmanuel Tuesday has proven he can lift heavy on the world stage. Now, he’s asking his country to lift with him.
