Team Nigeria Shines with Six Medals at Glasgow 2026

On the opening day of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Team Nigeria achieved a remarkable performance, finishing second in the medal standings with a total of six medals: three gold and three silver. Australia led the medal table.

The medals were all earned in the para powerlifting events. Roland Ezuruike, aged 50, set the stage by winning a silver medal in the Men’s Lightweight category with a lift of 185kg.

Esther Nworgu claimed Nigeria’s first gold medal, setting a new games record in the Women’s Lightweight by lifting 123kg, while her compatriot Esther Onyema secured silver in the same category with a lift of 125kg. Folashade Oluwafemiayo delivered the standout performance of the day, winning gold in the Women’s Heavyweight with a new world record lift of 175kg.

Rita Ferdinand finished second, equaling the previous world record with a lift of 158kg. Riluwan Idris added Nigeria's third gold medal in the Men’s Heavyweight with a lift of 208kg.