Nigeria Shines on Opening Day with Six Medals
Team Nigeria enjoyed an outstanding start to the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, winning six medals on Friday to sit second on the medals table. All medals came from para powerlifting, where the country secured three gold and three silver medals. Esther Nworgu claimed the first gold in the women’s lightweight event, while Esther Oyema finished second to complete a Nigerian one-two. Team captain Folashade Oluwafemiayo set a new world record with a 175kg lift to win gold in the women’s heavyweight category. Rita Ferdinand impressed with a silver medal, also setting a world record of 158kg. In the men’s events, Riluwan Idris won the heavyweight title, and veteran Roland Ezuruike secured Nigeria’s first medal of the Games – a silver in the lightweight event. The strong performance has boosted confidence across the team as they prepare for Saturday’s events.
Swimming Events Take Center Stage on Saturday
Attention now turns to the swimming pool, where four Nigerian athletes will compete. Abduljabar Adama is scheduled to race in the men’s 50m freestyle and 100m butterfly heats. Clinton Opute will also line up in the men’s 50m freestyle, and Collin Obi Ebincha will contest the men’s 100m butterfly. Dorcas Oka will represent Nigeria in the women’s 100m breaststroke. The swimmers hope to build on the momentum from Friday’s medal haul.
Wheelchair Basketball and Boxing Action
Later in the day, Nigeria’s women’s 3×3 wheelchair basketball team will open their campaign against hosts Scotland in Group B. The team will look to make a strong start against the home nation. In boxing, David Akintola will begin his challenge in the men’s 80kg event, competing in the preliminary round with hopes of advancing. Meanwhile, in men’s 3×3 basketball, Nigeria recorded a 21-17 victory over the Cayman Islands on Friday, winning one of their three games. However, there was disappointment in boxing as Ayomide Foly Hassan was eliminated from the men’s 70kg event.
Team Nigeria’s Medal Prospects Remain High
According to reports from the Games, Team Nigeria is aiming to maintain its impressive form. With a mix of experienced athletes and rising stars, the team is well-positioned to add more medals to its tally. The para powerlifting squad has set a high standard, and the swimming, basketball, and boxing teams are determined to contribute. Fans will be watching closely as the competition continues in Glasgow.
