Nigeria’s para powerlifting team shone brightly at the 11th World Para Powerlifting Championships in Cairo, Egypt, claiming two gold medals on the opening days. Rita Ferdinand and Esther Oyema led the charge with record-breaking lifts, boosting Nigeria to second place on the medal table as the event continues from October 9 to 18, 2025.
This marks the first time the championships are hosted in Africa, drawing athletes from over 50 countries. Nigeria’s early success highlights the nation’s dominance in the sport, building on strong showings at recent global events like the Paris 2024 Paralympics.
Ferdinand’s Stunning Debut Victory
Rita Ferdinand made a remarkable entry into international competition by winning gold in the women’s up to 79kg category. The 26-year-old athlete lifted 153kg, setting a new African record and defeating China’s Miaoyu Han, the reigning Paralympic champion.
This win came on the first day of elite competitions, surprising many fans and experts. Ferdinand’s performance not only secured Nigeria’s first gold but also showcased her potential as a rising star in para powerlifting.
Her lift beat Han’s attempt, turning the event into a thrilling showdown. Coaches praised Ferdinand’s technique and mental strength, noting how she overcame initial nerves to deliver under pressure.
Ferdinand’s achievement adds to Nigeria’s growing list of para sports successes. It follows similar triumphs by Nigerian athletes in weight categories at past world events, where precision and power often decide the outcomes.
Oyema Reclaims World Title
Esther Oyema, a veteran powerlifter, captured gold in the women’s 55kg category with a lift of 125kg. This victory marks her return to the top spot, having first won the world title in 2014.
Oyema’s performance on day two was flawless, earning her double gold in some reports for best lift and total. Her experience shone through as she outpaced competitors, including strong challengers from other nations.
This win is especially meaningful for Oyema, who has faced challenges in her career, including a suspension that she overcame. Her comeback inspires many in Nigeria’s para sports community.
Oyema’s success contributes to Nigeria’s medal haul, which now stands at four golds according to ongoing updates from the event. It reflects the team’s preparation and the support from national sports bodies.
Other Nigerian Medal Highlights
Nigeria’s team did not stop at gold. Esther Nworgu earned silver in the women’s 50kg category with a 120kg lift, narrowly missing gold after a failed final attempt at 125kg.
Rukayat Ajiboye took bronze in the same category, adding to the team’s strong start. These medals came despite tough competition from athletes like Venezuela’s Clara Fuentes, who claimed the top spot.
The championships have seen Nigeria accumulate medals across categories, with a total of four golds, one silver, and one bronze so far. This places the team high on the leaderboard, behind only powerhouses like China.
- Silver: Esther Nworgu (women’s 50kg, 120kg lift)
- Bronze: Rukayat Ajiboye (women’s 50kg)
These results build on Nigeria’s performance at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, where the team won multiple medals in para powerlifting, including golds and silvers.
Event Significance and Broader Impact
Hosting the championships in Cairo is a milestone for African para sports, promoting inclusion and inspiring young athletes across the continent. Over 300 competitors are participating, with events covering various weight classes for men and women.
Nigeria’s success draws attention to the country’s investment in para athletics. The National Sports Commission has ramped up training programs, leading to better equipment and coaching for athletes.
This event ties into global trends in para sports, where participation has grown by 20 percent since the Tokyo 2020 Games. Nigeria’s athletes often credit community support and family encouragement for their drive.
The championships also qualify athletes for future Paralympics, making every lift crucial. Nigeria aims to build on this momentum for the Los Angeles 2028 Games.
Looking Ahead for Team Nigeria
With the event running until October 18, more Nigerian athletes are set to compete in remaining categories. Expectations are high for additional medals, given the team’s depth.
Bukola Olopade, director-general of the National Sports Commission, commended the athletes, saying their efforts show Nigeria’s strength in para powerlifting. He promised continued support to nurture talent.
| Athlete | Category | Medal | Lift (kg) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rita Ferdinand | Women’s 79kg | Gold | 153 |
| Esther Oyema | Women’s 55kg | Gold | 125 |
| Esther Nworgu | Women’s 50kg | Silver | 120 |
| Rukayat Ajiboye | Women’s 50kg | Bronze | N/A |
This table summarizes Nigeria’s medals so far, highlighting the impressive lifts. As the competition progresses, fans watch for more records and podium finishes.
Nigeria’s para powerlifters continue to make headlines, proving resilience and skill on the world stage. Share your thoughts on their performance in the comments below, and spread the word about these inspiring athletes.
