Folashade Oluwafemiayo Named Team Nigeria Captain for 2026 Commonwealth Games

Nigeria's decorated para powerlifting star, Folashade Oluwafemiayo, has been appointed captain of Team Nigeria ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland.

The announcement places one of the country's most accomplished athletes in charge of leading the Nigerian contingent as preparations continue for the Games, scheduled to take place from July 23 to August 2.

The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, said Oluwafemiayo earned the role through her remarkable achievements, professionalism and exemplary leadership throughout her career.

According to Olopade, the commission deliberately selected a captain who embodies excellence, resilience and commitment to representing Nigeria on the global stage.

He described Oluwafemiayo as a multiple gold medallist, former world champion and one of Nigeria's most successful para-athletes, adding that her experience and winning mentality make her an ideal leader for the team.

Widely regarded as one of the world's finest para powerlifters, Oluwafemiayo has enjoyed an outstanding career filled with major international titles.

She is a four-time world champion and two-time Paralympic gold medallist, having won medals at the Paralympic Games, World Para Powerlifting Championships and the Commonwealth Games while setting several world records.

One of the highlights of her career came at the 2021 World Para Powerlifting Championships in Tbilisi, Georgia, where she lifted a world-record 152.5 kilograms to secure the gold medal. She also claimed the heavyweight gold medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games.

Her appointment is widely viewed as recognition of the tremendous contributions Nigeria's para-athletes have made to the country's sporting success over the years. Para-athletes have consistently delivered medals for Nigeria at the Paralympic Games, Commonwealth Games, African Games and World Championships.

Team Nigeria is expected to travel to Glasgow with a blend of experienced champions and promising young athletes across several sporting events as the country targets another successful outing at the Commonwealth Games.