Nigeria’s Folashade Oluwafemiayo has set a new World Record in the women’s over 86kg Para-Powerlifting category, becoming the first Para-athlete ever to lift 166kg. This achievement surpasses her previous record of 165kg and adds a gold medal to her collection.
Oluwafemiayo’s outstanding performance boosts Nigeria’s overall medal tally at the Paralympics to seven.
Her victory follows the Super Eagles’ 3-0 triumph over Benin Republic in their AFCON qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on Saturday.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian U20 Women’s football team secured a spot in the Round of 16 at the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup, with goals from Amina Bello, Chiamaka Okwuchukwu, Flourish Sabastine, and substitute Joy Igbokwe in their 4-0 win against Venezuela in Cali.
In other achievements, Flora Ugwunwa claimed silver in the Women’s Javelin F54 category with a throw of 19.26 meters. Bose Omolayo lifted 145kg to earn silver in the Women’s 79kg Para Powerlifting category, while Isau Ogunkunle secured a bronze medal in the Men’s Singles Class 4 Para Table Tennis, marking Nigeria’s first individual medal in the event since the 2000 Sydney Games.
Senator Enoh praised the athletes, saying, “We are incredibly proud of our Team Nigeria Paralympic athletes. Bose Omolayo, Flora Ugwunwa, and Isau Ogunkunle have brought immense pride and joy with their remarkable global performances. Their dedication and resilience embody the true spirit of Nigeria, inspiring millions.”
The Minister reiterated the government’s support for para-sports, emphasizing its commitment to ensuring Nigerian athletes have the necessary backing to excel internationally.
“Our champions have proven that disability is not a barrier. We are dedicated to creating an inclusive environment where all athletes, regardless of ability, can thrive and make Nigeria proud on the world stage.”