Onyinyechi Mark made history at the 2024 Paris Paralympics by securing Nigeria’s first gold medal of the Games in the women’s 61kg powerlifting category. The 23-year-old athlete delivered a record-breaking performance, lifting 150kg to not only win gold but also set a new world record.
Mark's exceptional lift surpassed the previous Paralympic record of 147kg, which was held by fellow Nigerian powerlifter Lucy Ejike. Mark’s remarkable achievement came on Friday, overcoming a strong challenge from China’s Cui Jianjin, who claimed the silver medal with a lift of 140kg, and Mexico’s Amelia Perez, who won bronze with a lift of 130kg.
In addition to her world record, Mark’s performance shattered the Paralympic record and earned Team Nigeria its third medal at the Paris Paralympics. Her victory was celebrated by Nigerian Sports Minister John Enoh, who praised Mark’s remarkable achievement in a tweet: “Congratulations Onyinyechi Mark! You hoisted the flag of our great nation at the Paralympics and set a new world record. Your performance has brought immense pride to Nigerians and demonstrated the resilient Nigerian spirit. Bravo!”
Mark’s gold medal adds to Nigeria's medal tally, following earlier successes by her teammates. On Wednesday, Esther Nworgu won a silver medal in the women’s up to 41kg para-powerlifting event. Two days prior, Eniola Bolaji secured a bronze medal in the women’s singles SL3 badminton event, becoming the first African athlete to win a medal in Para-Badminton.
Later on Friday, Lucy Ejike is set to compete in the women’s up to 67kg para-powerlifting category. Ejike, a 46-year-old veteran, is a three-time Paralympic gold medalist and aims to add another gold to her impressive collection.
Team Nigeria has long been a dominant force in Paralympic powerlifting. The team’s legacy includes a standout performance at the 2021 Para-Powerlifting World Cup in Manchester, where they won eight gold and three silver medals, surpassing competitors from 18 other countries. Mark was also a part of that team, earning a silver medal in the women’s 55kg category.
