Nigeria’s Esther Nworgu has won the country’s first gold medal at the 2026 Commonwealth Games after producing a dominant display in the women’s lightweight para powerlifting event.
Competing in Glasgow, Nworgu recorded a best lift of 123kg to earn 119 points, securing the gold medal and handing Team Nigeria its first title of the Games.
The victory completed a remarkable one-two finish for Nigeria as fellow para powerlifter Esther Oyema claimed the silver medal. Oyema registered a best lift of 125kg and finished with 115.5 points, while England’s Olivia Broome took bronze with a lift of 119kg, scoring 106.6 points.
Nworgu also set two Commonwealth Games records during the competition, underlining her dominance in the event and reinforcing her reputation as one of the sport’s leading athletes.
A Paralympic silver medallist, Nworgu delivered a composed and technically impressive performance to top a strong field. Oyema, one of Nigeria’s most decorated para powerlifters, added another major international medal to her illustrious career.
The result further highlights Nigeria’s long-standing success in para powerlifting, a sport that has consistently delivered medals for the country at major international competitions.
