Nworgu Breaks Commonwealth Games Record to Secure Nigeria’s First Gold in Glasgow

Nigeria’s medal campaign at the 2026 Commonwealth Games got off to a dream start as Esther Nworgu delivered a record-breaking performance to win the country’s first gold medal of the competition in para powerlifting.

Competing in the women’s lightweight category, Nworgu produced a dominant display by lifting 123kg, earning 119.0 points and setting a new Commonwealth Games record. Her remarkable effort saw her comfortably finish ahead of the field and underline Nigeria’s long-standing dominance in para powerlifting.

The victory marked the first gold medal for Team Nigeria at the Glasgow Games and immediately placed the country among the leading nations in the para powerlifting competition. Nworgu’s success also continued Nigeria’s rich tradition in the sport, where its athletes have consistently excelled at the Commonwealth Games, Paralympics and World Championships.

From her opening lift, Nworgu looked in complete control. She successfully cleared each attempt before producing the decisive 123kg lift that shattered the previous Commonwealth Games mark and secured the gold medal.

The packed arena erupted in applause as the Nigerian celebrated with coaches and teammates, while supporters waved the green-and-white flag in recognition of another memorable achievement for the country’s para sport programme.

Nworgu’s triumph was part of an outstanding opening day for Team Nigeria’s para powerlifting squad.

The Nigerian contingent also collected silver medals through experienced Paralympian Roland Ezuruike and Christiana Ikpeoyi, giving the country three medals in the opening sessions. Later in the day, team captain Folashade Oluwafemiayo added another gold after breaking the women’s heavyweight world record, while Rita Ferdinand secured silver to cap an impressive outing for Nigeria.

Nworgu’s latest achievement adds to an already impressive career. The Nigerian lifter has previously won medals at major international championships, including the Paralympic Games, and her latest record-breaking performance further establishes her as one of the world’s leading para powerlifters.

Officials from Team Nigeria praised her discipline, determination and composure under pressure, describing her gold medal as the perfect start to the nation’s Commonwealth Games campaign.

With para powerlifting once again delivering medals, expectations are growing that Nigeria can build on its early success as more events unfold across the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games.

The country’s athletes are scheduled to compete in athletics, boxing, wrestling, table tennis and other disciplines over the coming days, with hopes of adding to an already encouraging medal tally.