The two-time Paralympic champion and multiple world title holder lifted 172kg before powering an astonishing 175kg on her final attempt at the SEC Armadillo. This supreme display earned her 134.8 points and underlined her status as one of the greatest in the sport’s history.
Team Nigeria secured yet another one-two finish, with Rita Ferdinand claiming silver after a world record 158kg lift in her category for 128.2 points. Australia’s Hani Watson took bronze with 111.5 points.
Unparalleled Dominance from Nigeria’s Powerhouse
As Team Nigeria’s flagbearer and captain, Oluwafemiayo delivered under immense pressure, setting the heaviest lift ever recorded in women’s para powerlifting. Her record-breaking efforts capped a stellar career that includes Commonwealth gold in 2022 and consistent world record improvements.
Rita Ferdinand’s silver-medal performance further showcased Nigeria’s depth. The world champion pushed the boundaries with her 158kg world record lift, proving herself a formidable force in the heavyweight division.
Women's Heavyweight Para Powerlifting – Final Results:
- 🥇 Gold: Folashade Oluwafemiayo (Nigeria) – 175kg (WR), 134.8 points
- 🥈 Silver: Rita Ferdinand (Nigeria) – 158kg (WR), 128.2 points
- 🥉 Bronze: Hani Watson (Australia) – 111.5 points
Historic Day for Nigerian Para Powerlifters
This gold-silver sweep in the heavyweight event built on earlier successes, following Esther Nworgu’s record-breaking gold and Esther Oyema’s silver in the women’s lightweight, plus Roland Ezuruike’s silver in the men’s lightweight.
On the opening day alone, Nigeria’s para powerlifting team amassed multiple medals and world records, reinforcing their position as the pre-eminent nation in the discipline at the Commonwealth Games.
Oluwafemiayo’s latest triumph not only adds to her legendary legacy but also provides Nigeria with a powerful momentum boost as the Glasgow 2026 Games unfold. Her performance, alongside Ferdinand’s, highlights the extraordinary strength and preparation within the Nigerian squad.