Nigeria delivered another commanding performance on the continental stage, finishing second overall at the African Open Para-Powerlifting Championships in Oran after securing an impressive total of 49 medals.

The team closed the four-day competition with 32 gold, 12 silver, and five bronze medals, placing behind Egypt, who topped the standings with 84 medals, including 47 gold, 28 silver, and nine bronze.

Despite missing out on top spot, Nigeria once again underlined its status as one of the sport’s powerhouses in Africa, producing multiple standout performances across different weight categories.

Onyinyechi Mark Headlines Record-Breaking Final Day

The biggest moment of the championships came on the final day, where Onyinyechi Mark delivered a historic performance in the women’s 67kg category, breaking both the world and African records.

Her achievement was widely regarded as the highlight of the competition, further strengthening Nigeria’s reputation in para-powerlifting on the global stage.

Oluwafemiayo Continues Dominance, Domestic Battle in 50kg Category

Veteran lifter Folashade Oluwafemiayo also maintained her dominance, clinching gold in the women’s +86kg category to extend her impressive continental record.

In one of the most competitive events of the tournament, the women’s 50kg category featured an all-Nigerian showdown. Ajiboye Rukayat secured gold with a lift of 115kg, narrowly edging out compatriot Anigbogu Chikordi Esther, who claimed silver after lifting 114kg.

The Oran championships also played a key role as a qualification event for the World Para Powerlifting Championships scheduled for December in Bahrain. Athletes also earned crucial ranking points toward qualification for the 2028 Paralympic Games in Los Angeles.

Organised by World Para Powerlifting in collaboration with the Algerian Handisport Federation and under the supervision of Algeria’s Ministry of Sports, the competition featured 151 athletes—92 men and 59 women—from 15 African nations, as well as participants from countries including Iran, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Bahrain, and Greece.

Nigeria’s strong showing once again reinforced its standing as a consistent force in international para-powerlifting, with record-breaking performances highlighting a successful outing in Oran.