Esther Nworgu delivered a record-breaking performance to win Team Nigeria’s first gold medal at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, setting a new Games Record in the Women’s Lightweight Para Powerlifting event at the SEC Armadillo, Trybal News reports.
Nworgu lifted an impressive 119.0kg to claim the gold medal and rewrite the Commonwealth Games record books, underlining Nigeria’s continued dominance in para powerlifting.
Team Nigeria completed a memorable one-two finish in the event as veteran Esther Oyema claimed the silver medal with a best lift of 115.5kg. England’s Olivia Broome took bronze after lifting 106.6kg.
The double podium capped a remarkable outing for Nigeria, with both athletes showcasing the country’s strength in one of its most successful Commonwealth sports. The result also boosted Team Nigeria’s medal tally after Roland Ezuruike had earlier claimed silver in the Men’s Lightweight Para Powerlifting event.
Speaking after her historic victory, an emotional Nworgu dedicated the gold medal to Nigerians and praised the team’s preparation.
I’m overwhelmed with joy. Winning gold for Nigeria and setting a Games Record is a dream come true. We came here prepared, and I’m happy our hard work has paid off. This medal is for every Nigerian who believes in us, and I know Team Nigeria will continue to make the country proud.”
Nworgu’s gold and Games Record, coupled with Oyema’s silver-medal finish, further reinforce Nigeria’s reputation as one of the Commonwealth’s undisputed powerhouses in para powerlifting. With several medal events still to come, Team Nigeria has made a strong statement at the start of its Glasgow 2026 campaign.
