CWG: Bet9ja Foundation Celebrates Team Nigeria’s Historic Para Powerlifting Triumph

Bet9ja Foundation has celebrated Team Nigeria’s outstanding performance in para powerlifting at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow after the athletes delivered a historic medal haul on the opening day of competition.

Nigeria’s para powerlifters won three gold medals, three silver medals, set two world records and established a new Commonwealth Games record in a remarkable display that reinforced the country’s dominance in the sport.

The Foundation, through its sports development initiative and partnership with the Nigeria Para Powerlifting Federation, supported the team from the national selection trials to the Commonwealth Games, reaffirming its commitment to promoting inclusive sports and empowering athletes with disabilities.

Nigeria’s medal haul was led by Folashade Oluwafemiayo, who won gold after breaking her own world record twice during the competition.

Esther Nworgu also claimed gold and set a new Commonwealth Games record, while Riluwan Idris completed Nigeria’s golden sweep by winning the men’s heavyweight event.

Rita Ferdinand secured a silver medal after setting a new world record in her category, while Roland Ezuruike and Esther Oyema also claimed silver medals to complete an impressive outing for Team Nigeria.

Beyond the medals, the Foundation described the athletes’ achievements as a reflection of resilience, determination and excellence, noting that they also demonstrated the importance of creating opportunities for athletes with disabilities to compete and succeed at the highest level.

Managing Director of Bet9ja, Dr Ayo Ojuroye, said the organisation remains committed to supporting initiatives that positively impact lives beyond the gaming industry.

“Our vision at Bet9ja extends far beyond gaming. We believe our success should translate into meaningful investments that uplift communities, empower people and contribute to Nigeria’s development.

“Through Bet9ja Foundation, we are proud to support initiatives that create opportunities for exceptional talent to thrive regardless of ability. Team Nigeria’s performance in Glasgow is a testament to what is possible when resilience is matched with the right support, and we are honoured to be part of that journey,” he said.

Executive Director of Bet9ja Foundation, Ada Cuomo, said the organisation believes talent should never be limited by circumstance or disability.

She added that the Foundation remains committed to building an inclusive sporting environment where every athlete has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

Marketing Manager of Bet9ja Foundation, Omotola Oronti, who is accompanying the team in Glasgow, described the experience as inspiring.

She said witnessing the athletes’ achievements after supporting them from the national selection trials made the success even more rewarding.

According to her, the Foundation will continue investing in inclusive sports programmes that provide athletes with the resources and opportunities needed to excel on the international stage while making Nigeria proud.