Onyinyechi Mark breaks World Record at African Para-Powerlifting Championships
Nigeria delivered another commanding performance on the continental stage, finishing second overall at the African Open Para-Powerlifting Championships in Oran with an impressive haul of 49 medals.
Team Nigeria concluded the four-day competition with 32 gold, 12 silver and five bronze medals, trailing only Egypt, who topped the standings with 84 medals made up of 47 gold, 28 silver and nine bronze medals.
The standout moment for Nigeria came on the final day when Onyinyechi Mark produced a sensational performance in the women’s 67kg category, smashing both the world and African records to underline the country’s growing dominance in para-powerlifting.
Her record-breaking feat capped off a memorable outing for the Nigerian contingent, who once again established themselves among Africa’s elite in the sport.
Another highlight came from veteran star Folashade Oluwafemiayo, who continued her dominance on the continent by clinching gold in the women’s +86kg category.
Nigeria also enjoyed success in the women’s 50kg division, where Ajiboye Rukayat emerged victorious in a closely fought all-Nigerian contest. She secured gold with a lift of 115kg, narrowly edging compatriot Anigbogu Chikordi Esther, who claimed silver after lifting 114kg.
Beyond the medals, the championships carried significant importance for the athletes, serving as a qualification pathway for the World Championships scheduled for December in Bahrain.
Competitors also earned valuable ranking points toward qualification for the 2028 Paralympic Games in Los Angeles.
The competition, organised by World Para Powerlifting in partnership with the Algerian Handisport Federation and under the supervision of Algeria’s Ministry of Sports, attracted 151 athletes from across Africa and beyond.
A total of 92 male and 59 female athletes participated, representing 15 African nations alongside countries such as Iran, Iraq, Kazakhstan, and Bahrain from Asia, as well as Greece from Europe.
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