Folashade Oluwafemiayo has once again made history, breaking her own world record in the women’s over 86kg Para-Powerlifting category at the 2024 Paris Paralympics. The 39-year-old Nigerian powerhouse, who captained Team Nigeria at the Games, achieved a remarkable lift of 167kg, setting a new world record and clinching the gold medal. This extraordinary performance not only showcased Oluwafemiayo's exceptional strength but also solidified her position as a trailblazer in Para-Powerlifting.
Oluwafemiayo’s latest record surpasses her previous world record of 165kg, and she now stands as the first Para-athlete ever to lift 167kg. Her performance was the crowning glory of Nigeria’s participation in the Paralympics, bringing the country's medal tally to an impressive seven: two gold, three silver, and two bronze.
China’s Deng Xuemei secured the silver medal with a lift of 155kg, while Egypt’s Nadia Ali earned the bronze with a lift of 145kg.
Team Nigeria's Paralympic Success
Oluwafemiayo’s triumph caps a successful Paralympic campaign for Nigeria. The team’s achievements were marked by several standout performances throughout the Games:
Onyinyechi Mark opened Nigeria’s medal account with a gold medal in the powerlifting finals, demonstrating her dominance in the sport.
Esther Nworgu secured a silver medal in the women’s 41kg Para-Powerlifting event, contributing to Nigeria's growing tally.
Eniola Bolaji added a bronze medal in the women’s singles SL3 badminton event, showcasing Nigeria’s versatility across disciplines.
Flora Ugwunwa claimed silver in the women’s javelin F54 final, while Isau Ogunkunle earned a bronze in the Para-Table Tennis category.
Bose Omolayo rounded off the medal haul with a silver in the 79kg Para-Powerlifting category.
