₦5.4m Up For Grabs As Kingsley Awodi Para Powerlifting Open Championship Kicks Off In Abuja

The much anticipated Kingsley Awodi Para Powerlifting Open Championship has kicked off in Abuja, with over ₦5.4 million (approximately £11,000) in prize money set to reward Nigeria’s strongest athletes.

Organisers confirmed that prizes will be awarded across 120 podium spots in 20 weight categories. Winners in each class will take home ₦100,000. Second place earns ₦70,000, third receives ₦50,000, whilst 4th, 5th, and 6th place finishers will be awarded ₦30,000, ₦15,000, and ₦7,000 respectively.

The three-day championship began on 1st May with the arrival of athletes and a technical meeting to establish competition standards. The lifting action runs from 1st May through to 3rd May.

The event, funded by philanthropist Kingsley Awodi, aims to deepen Nigeria’s talent pool and provide para-athletes with consistent competition and financial incentives. Nigeria remains a global powerhouse in para powerlifting, and championships such as this ensure the next generation of medallists remain sharp and motivated.

With over 100 lifters expected to compete for cash prizes and national ranking points, the Kingsley Awodi Open is poised to elevate the standards for para sports funding and visibility in Nigeria.