Team Nigeria is making an unforgettable mark at the ongoing African Senior Weightlifting Championship, storming to the top of the medal table with a powerful haul of 7 gold, 4 silver, and 1 bronze as the championship nears its climax.
At the heart of this golden surge are Rafiatu Lawal (59KG) and Didih Onome (55KG), who each clinched three gold medals, electrifying the arena and reaffirming Nigeria’s dominance in African weightlifting.
Lawal, the reigning 2022 Commonwealth Games champion, was untouchable in the 59KG class. With poise and precision, she soared above the competition.
“I came here prepared, and I knew I had to give it everything,” said Lawal. “The support from the Federation and the National Sports Commission has been incredible—it gave us the edge. This gold is for Nigeria.”
In the 55KG category, Onome delivered a dazzling performance, her lifts marked by strength and focus.
“We came to Mauritius on a mission—to show the strength of Nigerian weightlifting,” Onome declared. “Every lift is for the green and white. I dedicate these medals to Dr. Ibrahim Abdul and the NSC, whose leadership continues to inspire us.”
Edidiong Joseph added to the medal count with one gold and two silver medals in the 73KG category, while Tuesday Emmanuel contributed two silvers and a bronze, pushing Nigeria further ahead in the standings.
The excitement isn’t over yet. Sarah Ovayioza is set to compete Friday, and Omolola Matthew remains in action, with both lifters still eyeing the podium.
Motivation has been sky-high, fueled by Hon. Bukola Olopade, Director General of the National Sports Commission, who earlier announced a generous incentive package for each medal won.
In a bold step, he also revealed that four lifters have been promoted to Category A of the Elite Athletes Programme, securing $20,000 in training grants, starting with a $5,000 disbursement next week.
With the championship running through April 28, Team Nigeria is not just lifting weights—they’re lifting national pride, aiming to finish as continental champions.
