Team Nigeria Dominates Africa Senior Weightlifting Championship With 29 Medals

The Nigerian weightlifting team ended their campaign at the 2026 Africa Senior Weightlifting Championship on Sunday with a remarkable feat, winning a staggering 29 medals, including 14 gold, 13 silver, and 2 bronze.

The event, held in Ismaila, Egypt, from May 10 to 17, showcased Nigeria’s strength and dominance in the sport, as the contingent of 10 athletes and three officials made their mark on the continental stage.

On the final day of competition, Nigeria added five more medals to their impressive tally. Notably, Taiwo Mary Osijo, competing in the 79kg women’s category, shone brightly by securing three silver medals. She achieved lifts of 95kg in the snatch and 116kg in the clean and jerk, bringing her total to an impressive 280kg.

In the men’s category, Lucky Joseph competed in the +110kg class and earned two bronze medals. Joseph’s performance included a snatch lift of 145kg and a clean and jerk of 170kg, culminating in a total lift of 315kg.

The Nigerian women’s team was particularly impressive, earning a total of 12 gold and 6 silver medals, showcasing the depth of talent in the squad. Ruth Asuquo Nyong was a standout performer, winning three gold medals in the 48kg category with a total lift of 167kg. Other notable performances included Onome Omolola Didih and Rafiatu Folashade Lawal, who also claimed gold in their respective weight classes.

The men’s team, while facing stiff competition, also delivered commendable performances, with Favour Omovigho Agboro and Edidiong Joseph Umoafia each securing gold medals alongside multiple silver finishes.

With a total medal haul of 29, Nigeria has solidified its position as a powerhouse in African weightlifting. The federation’s media officer, Ameachi Agbo, expressed pride in the athletes’ performances and underscored the importance of this achievement for the country’s sports reputation.

The Nigerian contingent is set to return home on Monday, May 18, where they will be welcomed as heroes. Their success at the championship not only highlights their individual talents but also serves as a testament to the growing strength of Nigeria’s weightlifting program on the global stage.