Nigeria to battle Ghana, Egypt, others at African Open Para-Powerlifting Champs
Team Nigeria is set to participate in the 2026 African Open Para-Powerlifting Championships scheduled to hold from May 21 to 24 in Oran, Algeria.
The Nigerian contingent comprises 13 athletes, including 10 female and three male para-powerlifters, who will represent the nation at the prestigious championship expected to attract some of the best athletes across Africa and beyond.
The athletes are Ajiboye Rukayat, Ani Chiamaka, Anigbogu Franka, Dauda Ibrahim, Ezuruike Roland, Ferdinard Rita, Ganiyu Anifat, Idris Riluwan Sabo, Mark Onyinyechi Gift, Nworgu Esther, Ogundolie Tolulope, Oluwafemiayo Folashade and Oyema Esther.
The delegation departed for Algeria on Monday ahead of the commencement of the competition.
The championship is expected to feature strong participation from 23 countries including host nation Algeria, Egypt, Morocco, Kenya, Ghana, Angola and Nigeria among other participating nations, making it one of the biggest para-powerlifting gatherings on the continent this year.
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Team Nigeria heads into the competition with high expectations following the country’s impressive record and pedigree in para-powerlifting at continental and global competitions.
Director General of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade urged the athletes to compete strongly for medals while showcasing Nigeria’s status as one of Africa’s leading forces in para sports.
The African Open Para-Powerlifting Championships will run from May 21- 24, with athletes competing across different weight categories in what promises to be a highly competitive tournament.
It would be recalled that Nigeria won 29 medals at the just-concluded 2026 Africa Senior Weightlifting Championship on Sunday, comprising 14 gold, 13 silver and two bronze medals.
