2026 Commonwealth Games: Oluwafemiayo sets world record as Nigeria wins second gold, Rita claims silver
Team Nigeria continued its impressive start to the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games on Friday as defending champion Folashade Oluwafemiayo clinched the country’s second gold medal in para powerlifting, setting a new world record in the process, while compatriot Rita Ferdinand settled for silver after also posting a world record score.
The latest feat was disclosed in an update by the National Sports Commission (NSC), which described the opening day of the Games as a golden outing for Team Nigeria following another dominant display by the country’s para powerlifters. Blueprint reports
Oluwafemiayo, one of Nigeria’s most decorated Paralympians, successfully defended her Commonwealth Games title with a remarkable world record score of 134.8 points, reaffirming her status as one of the finest para powerlifters in the world.
Oluwafemiayo extends dominance
The multiple Paralympic, World and Commonwealth champion once again demonstrated why she is regarded as a global force in para powerlifting, overpowering a strong field of competitors to secure another gold medal for Nigeria.
Her record-breaking performance further cemented her legacy in the sport, adding another milestone to an already glittering career that has seen her dominate major international championships over the past decade.
The latest triumph also underscored Nigeria’s enduring strength in para powerlifting, a discipline that has consistently delivered medals for the country at the Paralympic Games, World Championships, African Championships and Commonwealth Games.
Oluwafemiayo’s victory came amid loud celebrations from Nigerian officials and teammates, who hailed her consistency and determination on the international stage.
Ferdinand claims silver with another world record
Nigeria completed a memorable outing in the event as reigning world champion Rita Ferdinand secured the silver medal with 128.2 points, another world record score.
Although she finished behind her compatriot, Ferdinand’s performance highlighted the remarkable depth of Nigeria’s para powerlifting team, with two Nigerian athletes producing world record performances in the same competition.
The silver medal marked another significant achievement for Ferdinand, who has continued to establish herself among the world’s elite para powerlifters.
The one-two finish further strengthened Nigeria’s position on the Commonwealth Games medals table and reinforced the country’s reputation as a powerhouse in para powerlifting.
Nigeria’s medal tally grows
The latest medals added to what has already been a memorable opening day for Team Nigeria in Glasgow.
Earlier on Friday, Esther Nworgu won Nigeria’s first gold medal after triumphing in the women’s lightweight para powerlifting event, while veteran lifter Esther Oyema claimed the bronze medal in the same category.
Roland Ezuruike had earlier opened Nigeria’s medal account by winning silver in the men’s lightweight Group A para powerlifting competition.
With Oluwafemiayo’s gold and Ferdinand’s silver, Team Nigeria’s para powerlifting contingent has once again lived up to expectations by delivering the bulk of the country’s medals on the opening day.
Para powerlifting remains Nigeria’s strength
Nigeria has enjoyed sustained success in para powerlifting over the years, producing Paralympic champions, world champions and Commonwealth Games medallists.
Athletes such as Folashade Oluwafemiayo, Esther Oyema and Roland Ezuruike have consistently flown the country’s flag with distinction, making para powerlifting one of Nigeria’s most reliable sources of medals at international competitions.
The National Sports Commission has repeatedly identified the sport as one of the nation’s strongest events and has continued to support athletes through improved funding, international exposure and performance-based incentives.
The impressive performances in Glasgow appear to justify that investment, with Nigerian athletes once again dominating the competition.
Eyes on more medals
With momentum firmly on its side, Team Nigeria will head into Saturday’s events with renewed confidence as athletes compete in more para powerlifting, boxing and other sporting disciplines.
Officials remain optimistic that the country’s medal haul will continue to grow, particularly with several experienced athletes still expected to compete over the coming days.
The National Sports Commission expressed confidence that the medal rush witnessed on the opening day would continue throughout the championship as Team Nigeria pursues more podium finishes.
After an outstanding first day that has already produced two gold, two silver and one bronze medal, Nigeria has made a strong statement at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games and will be hoping to sustain the momentum as the competition enters its second day.
