Para powerlifting star Folashade Oluwafemiayo delivered a stunning performance to clinch the gold medal in the women’s heavyweight event at the 6th Islamic Solidarity Games in Riyadh on Saturday.

Already a dominant force in global para powerlifting, Oluwafemiayo showcased poise, precision, and Nigerian strength, lifting with authority to top the podium and reaffirm her country’s status as a powerhouse in the sport. Uzbekistan’s Kudratoy Toshpulatova earned silver, while Jordan’s Asma Issa took home bronze.

Oluwafemiayo’s triumph added to Team Nigeria’s impressive medal haul at the Games, where athletes have demonstrated grit, consistency, and world-class performances across multiple events.

On the track, Team Nigeria excelled in the Mixed 4x400m relay, with Gafari Badmus, Anita Enaruna, Ezekiel Asuquo, and Patience George clocking a season-best 3:16.27s to secure gold ahead of Bahrain and Turkey.

In wrestling, Esther Kolawole won gold in the Women’s 62kg freestyle event after defeating Ruzanna Mammadova of Azerbaijan. Damola Ojo claimed silver in the Women’s 76kg freestyle, finishing behind Kyrgyzstan’s Aiperi Kyzy.

With these victories, Team Nigeria has now amassed a total of 29 medals—10 gold, 12 silver, and seven bronze.

The Director General of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, hailed the success, noting that Nigeria’s consistent medal wins reflect careful planning and preparation.

“Only athletes with podium prospects were selected for Riyadh, and the results speak for themselves,” Olopade said. “From boxing and taekwondo to weightlifting, wrestling, and athletics, our athletes have excelled. This strategy will guide Nigeria’s approach to future international competitions, including the Commonwealth Games and the Olympics.”