Nigeria’s weightlifters will depart for Aberdeen, Scotland, on July 2 to begin the final phase of preparations for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, as the Nigeria Weightlifting Federation (NWF) intensifies efforts to boost the country’s medal prospects.
The federation expressed satisfaction with the ongoing training programme in Abuja, describing the camp as a critical stage in the athletes’ build-up to the Games.
The Abuja camp, which commenced on June 9 at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, has assembled 19 athletes and four coaches in a programme designed to fine-tune performance and enhance Team Nigeria’s readiness for the competition.
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The local phase concludes July 1, after which nine athletes and two coaches will travel to Aberdeen for an overseas training tour running from July 3.
NWF Technical Director Sefiya Onubaye said the camp had focused on technical refinement, strength development, conditioning, recovery and competition simulation.
“The local camping will end on July 1 and the team will travel to Aberdeen on July 2 for a training tour that begins on July 3. This phase is very important as it will help the athletes acclimatise and put finishing touches to their preparations,” NWF President Dr. Ibrahim Aladi Abdul said.
Abdul commended the National Sports Commission, led by Chairman Shehu Dikko and Director-General Bukola Olopade, for approving the camp and overseas tour.
The athletes in camp are Ruth Asuquo, Joseph Edidiong Umuafia, Sammy Cosmos, Rafiatu Lawal, Taiwo Liadi, Mary Osijo, Fathia Owoyele, Ruth Ayodele, Favour Agboro, Adedapo Opadeji, Emmanuela Edim, Abayomi Adeyemi, Didih Onome, Goodnews Obodo, Islamiyat Yusuf, Esther Adebayo, Goodnews Jacob, Precious Asadu and Marvelous Ibe. They are supervised by coaches Onubaye, Ruth Odunrinde, Luke Ibe and Young Peter Njoku.
Nigeria won six medals, including two gold, at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham.
