JamzNG Latest News, Gist, Entertainment in Nigeria
Team Nigeria has announced multiple Paralympic and world champion Folashade Oluwafemiayo as the captain of the national contingent at the upcoming Commonwealth Games.
The decision reflects the team’s deliberate commitment to appointing a leader whose achievements, professionalism and exemplary character embody the values of Nigerian sport.
Speaking on the appointment, the Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), the Hon. Bukola Olopade, stressed that the selection was intentional and based on merit.
“We intentionally chose our team captain. Folashade Oluwafemiayo is the ideal choice, having consistently demonstrated exceptional professionalism, resilience and excellence throughout his illustrious career.
She is a multiple gold medalist, a former world champion and one of Nigeria’s most decorated Paralympic athletes. Her leadership qualities and winning mentality make her an inspiration to every member of Team Nigeria,” he said.
Oluwafemiayo has established herself as one of the best Paralympic powerlifters in the world, winning numerous Paralympic, world and Commonwealth titles and setting world records.
Her remarkable consistency on the international stage has made her a symbol of excellence in Nigerian sport.
His nomination also recognizes the outstanding contributions of Nigerian Paralympic athletes, who have consistently delivered exceptional performances in major international competitions.
Over the years, the country’s Paralympic athletes have been among Nigeria’s most successful ambassadors, accounting for a significant share of the nation’s medals at the Paralympic Games, Commonwealth Games, African Games and World Championships.
Folashade is a four-time world champion and two-time Olympic gold medalist.
In 2021, he won the gold medal in his event at the 2021 World Para Powerlifting Championships held in Tbilisi, Georgia. During the event, he also set a new world record of 152.5 kg.
He competed at the 2022 Commonwealth Games where he won a gold medal in the heavyweight category.
Team Nigeria heads to the Commonwealth Games with a mix of experienced champions and promising young talents across various sports, united by a shared determination to represent the nation with distinction.
The 2026 Commonwealth Games will take place in Glasgow, Scotland from 23 July to 2 August 2026.
The NSC said Team Nigeria remains committed to excellence, discipline, sportsmanship and the pursuit of the podium that will make the nation proud.
