Nigeria’s multiple Paralympic and world champion, Folashade Oluwafemiayo, has been named captain of Team Nigeria for the upcoming 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland.
The National Sports Commission (NSC) announced the decision on Sunday, describing the appointment as a carefully considered move aimed at placing one of the country’s most accomplished athletes in a leadership position.
Speaking on the appointment, the director general of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade emphasized that the selection was intentional and based on merit.
“We are intentional about the selection of our team captain. Folashade Oluwafemiayo is the ideal choice, having consistently demonstrated exceptional professionalism, resilience, and excellence throughout her distinguished career.
“She is a multiple gold medalist, a former world champion, and one of Nigeria’s most decorated para-athletes. Her leadership qualities and winning mentality make her an inspiration to every member of Team Nigeria.”
Oluwafemiayo has established herself as one of the world’s finest para-powerlifters, winning multiple Paralympic, World Championship, and Commonwealth titles while setting world records.
Her remarkable consistency on the international stage has made her a symbol of excellence in Nigerian sport.
Her appointment also recognises the outstanding contributions of Nigeria’s para-athletes, who have consistently delivered exceptional performances at major international competitions.
Over the years, the country’s para-athletes have been among Nigeria’s most successful ambassadors, accounting for a significant share of the nation’s medals at the Paralympic Games, Commonwealth Games, African Games, and World Championships.
Folashade is a four-time world champion and two-time Paralympic gold medalist.
In 2021, she won the gold medal in her event at the World Para Powerlifting Championships in Tbilisi, Georgia. At the competition, she also set a new world record of 152.5 kg.
She also competed at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, where she won the gold medal in the heavyweight event.
Team Nigeria heads to the Commonwealth Games with a blend of experienced champions and promising young talents across various sports, united by a shared determination to represent the nation with distinction.
The 2026 Commonwealth Games will take place in Glasgow, Scotland, from 23 July to 2 August 2026.
The NSC stated that Team Nigeria remains committed to excellence, discipline, sportsmanship, and the pursuit of podium finishes that will make the nation proud.
Packaged by Lanre Olabisi
