Nigerian Weightlifters Shine in Egypt, Secure 24 Medals Ahead of Commonwealth Games

Nigerian Weightlifters Shine in Egypt, Secure 24 Medals Ahead of Commonwealth Games

By Niyi Busari 

Nigeria strengthened its dominance at the ongoing 2026 Senior African Weightlifting Championships in Ismailia, Egypt, after securing an additional nine medals on Thursday to remain firmly atop the medals table, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The latest success comes after Team Nigeria had earlier claimed 10 gold medals at the continental event, which also serves as a qualification tournament for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

The trio of Liadi Taiwo, Edidiong Umoafia and Adedapo Adeleke delivered impressive performances to boost Nigeria’s medal tally.

Competing in the women’s 77kg category, Taiwo swept all three gold medals on offer, leaving host nation Egypt and Tunisia to settle for the remaining podium places.

In the men’s 71kg category, Umoafia claimed one gold and two silver medals, while Adeleke secured three silver medals in the men’s 79kg division.

Nigeria has now amassed a total of 24 medals — 14 gold and 10 silver — surpassing its performance at the 2025 African Senior Weightlifting Championships held in Moka, Mauritius, where the country finished overall champions with 18 medals comprising 13 gold, four silver and one bronze.

Team Nigeria is expected to further improve its medal count as the competition enters its final stages. Taiwo Osijo is scheduled to compete in the women’s 86kg category on Friday, while Lucky Joseph will be in action on Saturday.

Meanwhile, the Federal Government has applauded the outstanding performances of the Nigerian contingent at the championships.

Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Alhaji Shehu Dikko, commended the Nigeria Weightlifting Federation (NWF), coaches and athletes for their achievements in Egypt.

He described the team’s success as evidence of renewed commitment to sporting excellence in the country.

“This exceptional outing by our weightlifters is another proud moment for Nigeria and proof that our athletes can dominate on any stage when given the right support and environment,” Dikko said.

“The consistency, discipline and hunger shown by these athletes are truly commendable. We congratulate the federation, the coaches and the athletes for making the nation proud while also strengthening our prospects ahead of the Commonwealth Games.”

Director-General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, also urged the athletes and officials to remain focused despite their impressive achievements.

“Great achievements come with greater responsibility and this is the time for our athletes to stay mentally strong, committed and determined to reach even higher levels,” Olopade stated.

He reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to supporting Nigerian athletes and sports federations in their efforts to elevate the country’s image globally.

The NSC also praised the leadership of the Nigeria Weightlifting Federation under its President, Dr. Ibrahim Abdul, for its continued efforts in developing weightlifting and producing elite athletes capable of excelling internationally.

A total of 10 Nigerian athletes are representing the country at the championships in Egypt, with more medal opportunities still available before the competition concludes.