Lagos, Nigeria – History was made at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games as Team Nigeria’s para powerlifters delivered a remarkable opening-day performance, winning three gold medals, three silver medals, two world records and a Commonwealth Games record. For Bet9ja Foundation, it was a proud moment that underscored the value of investing in talent, promoting inclusion and supporting Nigerian athletes on their journey to excellence.
Through its Sports Development pillar and ongoing partnership with the Nigeria Para Powerlifting Federation, Bet9ja Foundation supported the team from the national selection trials through to the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, reaffirming its commitment to creating opportunities for athletes with disabilities to compete, thrive and inspire on the global stage.
Team Nigeria’s outstanding performance saw Folashade Oluwafemiayo win gold after breaking her own world record twice in a single competition, while Esther Nworgu claimed gold and set a new Commonwealth Games record. Riluwan Idris added a third gold medal in the men’s heavyweight event, while Rita Ferdinand secured silver with a new world record. Roland Ezuruike and Esther Oyema completed Nigeria’s medal haul with silver-medal finishes, rounding off an unforgettable opening day for Team Nigeria.
Beyond the medals and records, the performances highlighted the resilience, determination and excellence that define Nigeria’s para athletes. They also reinforced the importance of creating pathways for athletes with disabilities to reach their full potential and demonstrated how sport can inspire hope, promote inclusion and unite the nation.
Ada Cuomo, Executive Director, Bet9ja Foundation, said:
“At Bet9ja Foundation, we believe talent should never be limited by circumstance or ability. Supporting Team Nigeria’s para powerlifters reflects our commitment to building an inclusive sporting ecosystem where every athlete has the opportunity to succeed. We are immensely proud of what this team has achieved in Glasgow. Their performances are not only a victory for Nigerian sport but also a powerful reminder of what is possible when determination is matched with meaningful support.”
Speaking from Glasgow, Omotola Oronti, Marketing Manager, Bet9ja Foundation, said:
“Being here and witnessing these achievements firsthand has been incredibly special. We’ve supported this team since the national selection trials, and seeing their hard work rewarded on one of the biggest stages in sport is truly inspiring. Moments like this remind us why investing in inclusive sports matters. At Bet9ja Foundation, we are proud to stand behind these exceptional athletes and remain committed to creating opportunities that enable them to achieve excellence and continue making Nigeria proud.”
As Team Nigeria continues its Commonwealth Games campaign, Bet9ja Foundation celebrates the athletes’ achievements and remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote inclusion, nurture talent and strengthen the future of Nigerian sports.
Follow Bet9ja Foundation across its digital platforms to stay updated on the Foundation’s impact and its continued efforts to create opportunities through education, healthcare, youth empowerment, sports and community development.
