NWF Hails Ruth Nyong’s Commonwealth Silver, Urges Other Lifters To Emulate Feat

The Nigeria Weightlifting Federation (NWF) has congratulated Ruth Asuquo Nyong for winning a silver medal in the women’s 48kg event at the ongoing Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, urging other Nigerian lifters to draw inspiration from her achievement and deliver more medals for the country.

Nyong secured silver after recording a total lift of 168kg, comprising 75kg in the snatch and 93kg in the clean and jerk. She finished behind India’s Mirabai Chanu Saikhom, who claimed gold with a Commonwealth Games record total of 190kg, while Malaysia’s Irene Jane Henry took bronze with 167kg.

Reacting to the performance, President of the Nigeria Weightlifting Federation, Dr. Ibrahim Abdul in a statement on Sunday described Nyong’s achievement as the reward for months of dedication and quality preparation.

“I am delighted with Ruth Nyong’s silver medal performance. She competed with great determination and showed the fighting spirit Nigerians are known for,” Abdul said.

“On behalf of the Nigeria Weightlifting Federation, I congratulate her for making the country proud and adding another medal to Team Nigeria’s tally.”

The NWF president challenged the remaining Nigerian weightlifters to remain focused and emulate Nyong by reaching the podium in their respective events.

“I want to encourage every member of our weightlifting contingent to remain focused and believe in their abilities. Ruth has shown that the podium is within reach. I urge the rest of our athletes to go out there, give their best and do the Federation and Nigeria proud by excelling in their events,” he said.

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Abdul also commended the National Sports Commission for creating an environment that has enabled the athletes to perform at their best.

“We sincerely appreciate the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko, and the Director General, Hon. Bukola Olopade, for their unwavering support. The camping programme in Abuja, followed by the foreign training camp in Aberdeen, Scotland, ensured our athletes were adequately prepared for this competition,” he said.

“The incentives, encouragement and welfare package provided by the National Sports Commission have greatly motivated the athletes. It is evident that the athletes are going the extra mile because they know their efforts are appreciated. That support has boosted their confidence and determination to deliver for Nigeria.”

He also praised the team’s coaches, Luke Ibeh and Sefiya Onubaye, for their efforts, expressing confidence that the weightlifting team would secure more medals before the end of the Games.

Nyong’s silver medal strengthened Team Nigeria’s campaign at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, with the country having won three gold and four silver medals at the time of filing this report.