Weightlifters shoulder Nigeria’s Glasgow campaign as boxing falters

Weightlifters are carrying Nigeria's medal hopes at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, accounting for the vast majority of the nation's 12-medal haul. Even after athletics secured its first medals, the lifters' contribution remains paramount.

Team Nigeria has collected six gold, four silver, and two bronze medals. This places them fifth in the overall standings and first among African nations. However, the country's boxing contingent has faltered, with five of its six boxers already eliminated. This contrasts sharply with the success in weightlifting and para-powerlifting, which contributed 10 of Nigeria's 12 medals.

Notable performances include gold medals from Esther Nworgu, Folashade Oluwafemiayo, and Riluwan Idris in para powerlifting, and Edidiong Umoafia, Onome Didih, and Rafiatu Lawal in weightlifting. Umoafia set a Commonwealth Games record in the men's 71kg event with a combined lift of 319kg. Didih also set a record in the women's 53kg category with 206kg, and Lawal successfully defended her title in the women's 58kg event with a 229kg total.

Athletics finally contributed to the medal table with Kayinsola Ajayi winning bronze in the men's 100m, marking the first time a Nigerian man has medaled in the event since 2006. Temitope Adeshina also secured a bronze in the women's high jump. Despite these successes, the boxing team's struggles continue, with Patricia Mbata being the latest to be eliminated.