Nigeria’s Folashade Oluwafemiayo has set a new world record in the women’s over 86kg Para-Powerlifting category, becoming the first para-athlete in history to lift 166kg. This performance surpassed her previous world record of 165kg and earned her a gold medal at the Paralympics, bringing Nigeria’s total medal count to seven.
Her achievement follows the Super Eagles’ 3-0 victory over Benin Republic in their AFCON qualifier match at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on Saturday. Additionally, the Nigerian U20 Women’s team secured their place in the Round of 16 at the ongoing FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup, with goals from Amina Bello, Chiamaka Okwuchukwu, Flourish Sabastine, and Joy Igbokwe against Venezuela in Cali.
In other events, Flora Ugwunwa won a silver medal in the Women’s Javelin F54 category with a throw of 19.26 meters. Bose Omolayo, competing in the Women’s 79kg Para-Powerlifting category, lifted 145kg to also secure a silver medal for Nigeria. Meanwhile, Isau Ogunkunle claimed a bronze medal in the Men’s Singles Class 4 Para Table Tennis event, becoming the first Nigerian to win an individual medal in Para Table Tennis since the Sydney 2000 Games.
Reacting to these achievements, Senator Enoh stated, “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, emphasizing, “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, “ He said.
