Nigeria delivered a commanding performance at the maiden Central African Zone Powerlifting Championship in Yaoundé, Cameroon, securing nine gold medals and one silver medal to emerge as one of the standout nations at the competition.
The Nigerian contingent displayed remarkable strength and technical excellence across multiple weight categories, highlighting the country’s growing influence in African powerlifting.Among the gold medal winners were Blessing Ogunbure in the women’s 75kg category,
Emmanuel Tuesday in the men’s 74kg division, and Joel Agbigbe in the men’s 83kg class. Nigeria’s lone silver medal was won by Odok Answer, who impressed on his championship debut in the 105kg category.
The team’s success extended beyond the medal table, with Emmanuel Tuesday, Abiola Olajumoke, Blessing Ogunbure and Betty Udok earning Best Lifter awards following their outstanding performances throughout the competition.
Head coach Lucky Jolly Iduseri credited the achievement to thorough preparation, discipline and effective planning.
According to him, the athletes were adequately prepared to handle challenges and remain focused despite logistical difficulties encountered during the championship.One of the highlights of Nigeria’s campaign came from Sandra Ndukwu, who claimed gold in the women’s 84kg category.
Her triumph capped months of dedication and hard work, further contributing to Nigeria’s impressive medal haul.
The outstanding performance in Yaoundé reinforces Nigeria’s status as a rising force in African powerlifting and reflects the success of its athlete development programmes.
With several champions crowned and valuable international experience gained, the team will head into future continental and global competitions with renewed confidence and ambition.
