Nigeria’s Rita Ferdinand, Esther Nworgu, and Rukayat Opeyemi Ajiboye have powered their country to six medals at the 11th World Para Powerlifting Championships in Cairo, Egypt.
Rita Ferdinand lifted 153 kilograms to win gold in the women’s up to 79kg category, marking a decisive moment for Team Nigeria’s campaign. Esther Nworgu took silver in the women’s 50kg class, while Rukayat Opeyemi Ajiboye secured bronze in the same event.
These victories have propelled Nigeria to second on the medals table with four golds, one silver, and one bronze. Egypt currently leads the standings as the host nation.
Historic milestone for African para sports
This year’s championships, running from 9 to 18 October 2025, have made history as the first ever hosted on African soil. Over 300 athletes from 50 countries are competing at the Cairo International Convention Centre.
Indeed, Nigeria’s performance reflects its dominance, with 15 Paralympic medals since 2000. The team’s early success signals renewed strength ahead of future global events.
Star performers lead the charge
Rita Ferdinand’s commanding 153kg lift has cemented her place among the sport’s elite. The 28-year-old, who claimed silver at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, has now earned two golds in Cairo, building on her status as an African champion.
Esther Nworgu, aged 22, has achieved her first international medal with a record-breaking lift in the 50kg division.
Rukayat Opeyemi Ajiboye, 25, has maintained composure in a tough 50kg field, clinching bronze to complete Nigeria’s early medal sweep.
Veteran returns to glory
Surprisingly, Nigeria’s medal tally has been boosted by Esther Onyeama, who has won two golds in the women’s 55kg category after lifting 125kg. Her return to form has ended an 11-year wait for a world title, rekindling memories of her 2016 Rio Paralympic triumph.
Furthermore, according to National Sports Commission Director General Bukola Olopade, the results are “proof of the athletes’ dedication and the growing support for adaptive sports in Nigeria.” He said ongoing investment in training facilities has played a key role in the team’s consistency.
Eyes on Los Angeles 2028
In continuation, Nigeria’s impressive showing in Cairo positions the team strongly ahead of the 2028 Los Angeles Paralympic Games. Officials expect additional medals from men’s events as the championships continue.
The International Paralympic Committee (IPC), which oversees the event, praised Cairo’s successful hosting as a major step toward inclusion in global para sports. The competition’s focus on fair classification ensures athletes of different impairment levels compete equitably.
In conclusion, as the championships enter their final stages, Nigeria’s para lifters have set a new benchmark. Their achievements in Cairo have attested to Africa’s growing influence in the global para sports arena.
