Record-breaking Nworgu wins Nigeria’s first gold medal

Esther Nworgu secured Team Nigeria's first gold medal of the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, dominating the women’s para powerlifting lightweight category. The 24-year-old athlete set a new Games record twice during the competition before clinching the title with a winning lift of 123kg, earning 119 points.

Nworgu began the competition by setting a Games record with a successful first-attempt lift of 118kg, scoring 114.1 points and taking the lead. Less than ten minutes later, she surpassed her own record, lifting 123kg to achieve 119 points and secure the gold medal definitively. Her performance set a strong tone for Nigeria's para powerlifting campaign.

In line with the National Sports Commission’s enhanced athlete welfare and reward policy, Nworgu received substantial financial recognition for her achievement. She was awarded an instant cash reward of $5,000 at the competition venue, with an additional $5,000 paid directly into her account, bringing her total reward for the gold medal to $10,000.

Nworgu's triumph provided Team Nigeria with an ideal start to their para powerlifting campaign in Glasgow and set a precedent for further success from the squad on the opening day of competition. Her record-breaking performance highlighted the athletes' dedication and the commission's commitment to rewarding excellence.