Team Nigeria kicked off its 2026 Commonwealth Games journey with a remarkable entry as Esther Nworgu secured the country’s first gold medal, leading an impressive collection of three medals in the para powerlifting competition in Glasgow.
Nworgu delivered a record-setting performance in the women’s lightweight event by lifting 123kg and earning 119 points, establishing two new Commonwealth Games records and securing the gold medal. Her commanding performance affirmed Nigeria’s position as a global leader in para powerlifting.
A memorable one-two finish for Nigeria in the women’s lightweight category was completed by Esther Oyema, a multi-Paralympic and world medallist, who took the silver medal. Oyema lifted 125kg, accumulating 115.5 points, while England’s Olivia Broome captured the bronze with a lift of 119kg and a total of 106.6 points.
Earlier, seasoned Nigerian para powerlifter Roland Ezuruike initiated Team Nigeria’s medal tally by winning silver in the men’s lightweight competition. Ezuruike exhibited an outstanding performance but narrowly missed the gold, losing to England’s Mark Swan by the slimmest margin after both athletes tied on points. Malaysia’s Bonnie Bunyau Gustin took home the bronze medal.
Nworgu’s triumph marks another significant milestone in her career, adding a Commonwealth Games title to her expanding list of international successes. The Paralympic silver medallist maintained remarkable composure throughout, executing technically perfect lifts to surpass a highly competitive field.
For Oyema, the silver medal further embellishes an already illustrious career filled with numerous Paralympic, World Championship, and Commonwealth Games accolades. Her unwavering consistency on the international stage solidifies her status as one of Nigeria’s most celebrated para athletes.
Ezuruike’s silver medal underscored his experience and tenacity, once again showcasing his capability to compete against the world’s elite despite an extraordinarily close finish.
Team Nigeria officials commended the athletes for their exceptional performances, highlighting the medal achievements as a payoff for months of dedication, discipline, and rigorous preparation. They conveyed optimism that the country’s athletes would continue to vie for more medals as the Games progress.
Nigeria’s collection of one gold and two silver medals provided an early boost to the nation’s campaign in Glasgow, reinforcing its enduring supremacy in Commonwealth para powerlifting, where it has consistently ranked among the most successful nations in the sport.
