Paralympian Folashade Oluwafemiayo Named Team Nigeria Captain for 2026 Commonwealth Games

Team Nigeria has announced multiple Paralympic and world champion Folashade Oluwafemiayo as the captain for the nation's contingent at the upcoming Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland. The Games are scheduled to take place from July 23 to August 2, 2026.

The Director General of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, stated that the selection underscores the team's deliberate choice to appoint a leader whose achievements, professionalism, and exemplary character align with the values of Nigerian sports. Olopade emphasized that the decision was intentional and based purely on merit.

"We are intentional about the selection of our team captain," Olopade said. "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."

Oluwafemiayo is widely regarded as one of the world's premier para powerlifters. Her career boasts multiple Paralympic, World Championship, and Commonwealth titles, often accompanied by world records. Her consistent international success has established her as a symbol of excellence within Nigerian sports.

The National Sports Commission also noted that this appointment serves as recognition for the significant contributions of Nigeria's para athletes. These athletes have consistently delivered outstanding performances at major international competitions, securing a substantial portion of the nation's medals across various games, including the Paralympics, Commonwealth Games, African Games, and World Championships. Oluwafemiayo herself is a four-time world champion and a two-time Paralympic gold medalist, setting a world record of 152.5 kg at the 2021 World Para Powerlifting Championships and winning gold at the 2022 Commonwealth Games.

“

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.