Commonwealth Games: Nigeria Weightlifters Set for Aberdeen Training Tour

Commonwealth Games: Nigeria Weightlifters Set for Aberdeen Training Tour 

By BSN Sports 

The Nigeria Weightlifting Federation (NWF) has expressed satisfaction with the progress made by athletes currently participating in a high-performance training camp in Abuja ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The first phase of the federation's preparation programme, which commenced on June 9 at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, has brought together 20 athletes and four coaches as Nigeria intensifies efforts to build a formidable team for the Games.

Speaking on the progress of the camp, NWF Technical Director, Sefiya Onubaye, described the exercise as highly successful, noting that athletes have demonstrated remarkable commitment, discipline and determination as they compete for places in Team Nigeria.

"The atmosphere in camp has been very positive, with athletes showing a high level of dedication throughout the programme," Onubaye said.

He explained that the training sessions have focused on technical improvement, strength development, conditioning, recovery strategies and competition simulations aimed at preparing the lifters for the challenges of elite international competition.

The athletes currently in camp include Ruth Asuquo, Joseph Edidiong Umuafia, Sammy Cosmos, Rafiatu Lawal, Taiwo Liadi, Mary Osijo, Fathia Owoyele, Ruth Ayodele, Favour Agboro, Adedapo Opadeji, Emmanuela Edim, Abayomi Adeyemi, Didih Onome, Goodnews Obodo, Islamiyat Yusuf, Esther Adebayo, Goodnews Jacob, Precious Asadu and Marvelous Ibe.

The coaching team comprises Sefiya Onubaye, Ruth Odunrinde, Luke Ibe and Young Peter Njoku.

According to the federation, the Abuja training programme will conclude on July 1, after which a final squad of nine athletes and two coaches will depart for Aberdeen, Scotland, on July 2.

The overseas training tour, scheduled to begin on July 3, will serve as the final stage of preparations before the athletes move to Glasgow for the Commonwealth Games.

Onubaye believes the Aberdeen camp will provide the selected athletes with the ideal environment to fine-tune their techniques, adapt to competition conditions and complete their preparations in line with international standards.

NWF President, Dr. Ibrahim Aladi Abdul, also expressed satisfaction with the level of commitment displayed by both athletes and coaches since the commencement of the camping programme.

He said the federation deliberately designed a comprehensive preparation strategy to ensure Nigeria's representatives are adequately prepared to compete for medals in Scotland.

"The camp is progressing very well and the athletes are in high spirits. We are pleased with the level of commitment, discipline and hard work demonstrated by everyone involved," Abdul said.

He added that the transition from Abuja to Aberdeen would further enhance the team's readiness for the Games.

"The local camping programme will end on July 1, while the training tour in Aberdeen begins on July 3. This phase is crucial because it will allow the athletes to acclimatise and put the finishing touches to their preparations ahead of competition," he stated.

The federation president also commended the National Sports Commission (NSC), led by Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko and Director-General Bukola Olopade, for supporting the team's preparations.

According to Abdul, the timely approval of both the Abuja camp and the overseas training tour has provided the federation with the resources needed to adequately prepare the athletes for the Games.

"We appreciate the support and commitment of the National Sports Commission. Their backing has ensured that our athletes receive the preparation required to compete effectively on the international stage," he said.

Abdul expressed optimism that Nigeria's weightlifters would deliver strong performances in Glasgow and improve on the country's showing at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, where Team Nigeria won six medals, comprising two gold, one silver and three bronze.

"We have quality athletes in camp and I am confident they will rise to the occasion and make Nigeria proud when the Games begin," he added.

Nigeria's weightlifting team will be aiming to surpass its Birmingham 2022 medal tally when competition gets underway in Glasgow later this year.