Nigeria’s most decorated para powerlifter, Folashade Oluwafemiayo, has been named captain of Team Nigeria for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland.
The announcement was made by the National Sports Commission (NSC), which said the appointment reflects its commitment to choosing a leader whose achievements, professionalism and character embody the values of Nigerian sports.
Director General of the NSC, Bukola Olopade, said Oluwafemiayo was selected on merit following her remarkable accomplishments on the international stage.
“We are intentional about the selection of our team captain. Folashade Oluwafemiayo is the ideal choice, having consistently demonstrated exceptional professionalism, resilience, and excellence throughout her distinguished career. She is a multiple gold medalist, a former world champion, and one of Nigeria’s most decorated para athletes. Her leadership qualities and winning mentality make her an inspiration to every member of Team Nigeria,” Olopade said.
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Oluwafemiayo has enjoyed one of the most successful careers in Nigerian sports, winning two Paralympic gold medals, four World Championship titles and Commonwealth Games gold while establishing herself as one of the world’s leading para powerlifters.
She claimed gold at the 2021 World Para Powerlifting Championships in Tbilisi, Georgia, where she also set a new world record with a lift of 152.5kg. She followed that achievement by winning the heavyweight gold medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham.
The NSC said her appointment also recognises the immense contributions of Nigeria’s para athletes, who have consistently delivered medals for the country at the Paralympic Games, Commonwealth Games, African Games and World Championships.
Team Nigeria will head to Glasgow with a blend of experienced champions and emerging talents across multiple sports as the country targets another successful outing at the Games.
The 2026 Commonwealth Games will be held in Glasgow, Scotland, from July 23 to August 2, with Team Nigeria aiming to compete for medals across athletics, wrestling, weightlifting, para sports and other disciplines.
The NSC added that the Nigerian contingent remains committed to excellence, discipline, sportsmanship and delivering podium finishes that will make the nation proud.
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