Four-Time World Champion Oluwafemiayo to Lead Nigeria's Commonwealth Games Campaign

Four-Time World Champion Oluwafemiayo to Lead Nigeria's Commonwealth Games Campaign

By Niyi Busari 

Nigeria's most decorated para powerlifter, Folashade Oluwafemiayo, has been appointed captain of Team Nigeria for the 2026 Commonwealth Games scheduled to hold in Glasgow, Scotland, from July 23 to August 2, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The National Sports Commission (NSC) announced the appointment on Saturday, describing it as a recognition of Oluwafemiayo's outstanding achievements, exemplary leadership, and unwavering commitment to excellence on the international stage.

Director General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, said the decision to appoint Oluwafemiayo was based on merit and reflected the Commission's commitment to rewarding excellence and professionalism.

"We are intentional about the selection of our team captain. Folashade Oluwafemiayo is the ideal choice, having consistently demonstrated exceptional professionalism, resilience, and excellence throughout her distinguished career. She is a multiple gold medalist, a former world champion, and one of Nigeria's most decorated para athletes. Her leadership qualities and winning mentality make her an inspiration to every member of Team Nigeria," Olopade said.

Oluwafemiayo has established herself as one of the world's greatest para powerlifters, winning multiple Paralympic, World Championship and Commonwealth Games titles while setting several world records.

A four-time world champion and two-time Paralympic gold medalist, she further cemented her status in 2021 when she claimed gold at the World Para Powerlifting Championships in Tbilisi, Georgia, lifting a world-record 152.5kg. She also won gold in the heavyweight category at the 2022 Commonwealth Games.

The NSC said her appointment also acknowledges the immense contributions of Nigeria's para athletes, who have consistently been among the country's most successful medal winners at the Paralympic Games, Commonwealth Games, African Games and World Championships.

According to the Commission, Team Nigeria will head to Glasgow with a blend of experienced champions and emerging talents across different sports, united by a shared ambition to compete successfully and make the country proud.

The NSC reaffirmed its commitment to excellence, discipline and sportsmanship, expressing confidence that the Nigerian contingent will challenge strongly for podium finishes at the 2026 Commonwealth Games.