Nigeria’s Folashade Oluwafemiayo has made history by breaking her own World Record in the women’s over 86kg Para-Powerlifting event, becoming the first Para-athlete ever to lift 166kg.
This surpasses her previous record of 165kg, and she also secured a gold medal with this remarkable achievement.
Oluwafemiayo’s outstanding performance brings Nigeria’s total medal count at the Paralympics to seven. Her victory coincided with the Super Eagles’ 3-0 win over Benin Republic in their AFCON qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on Saturday.
Meanwhile, in the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup, goals by Amina Bello, Chiamaka Okwuchukwu, Flourish Sabastine, and substitute Joy Igbokwe propelled two-time silver medalists Nigeria to the Round of 16 after their 4-0 victory against Venezuela in Cali on Saturday.
Additionally, Flora Ugwunwa secured a silver medal in the Women’s Javelin F54 category with an impressive throw of 19.26 meters, placing second in a competitive field. Bose Omolayo won silver in the Women’s 79kg Para Powerlifting event, lifting 145kg.
Isah Ogunkunle earned a bronze medal in the Men’s Singles Class 4 Para Table Tennis event, becoming the first Nigerian athlete to win an individual medal in Para Table Tennis since the Sydney 2000 Games.
Reacting to their achievements earlier, Senator Enoh said, “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 reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting para-sports and ensuring that Nigerian athletes receive the backing they need to succeed on the international stage.
“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.”