By Patrick Titus, Uyo
Among top 10 weightlifters in Team Nigeria’s squad for the 2026 African Senior Weightlifting Championship scheduled to take place in Ismailia, Egypt from May 10 to 17, 2026 are two Akwa Ibom’s proud son and daughter.
Edidiong Umoafia, a bronze medalist at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, will compete in the men’s 71kg category, while, Ruth Nyong, who won silver at the 2025 Commonwealth Weightlifting Championships, will contest in the women’s 48kg category.
Both athletes, regarded among Nigeria’s finest, have consistently represented Akwa Ibom State in national competitions. They will be aiming to improve on their past performances while also seeking qualification for the upcoming 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, scheduled from July 23 to August 3, 2026.
The African Championships will serve as a qualifying event for the Glasgow Games, making it a crucial outing for the athletes.
Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Sports, Paul Bassey, in his reaction to the development, congratulated the athletes and urged them to represent the state with excellence.
“It is a thing of honour and pride for us as a state to have two athletes among the 10 representing Nigeria. This reflects the positive impact of our government’s commitment to sports development,” he said.
He also commended Governor Umo Eno for his continued investment in grassroots sports development, noting that it has provided opportunities for young athletes to thrive.
Bassey further congratulated Lawrence Iquaibom, Vice President of the Nigeria Weightlifting Federation, on his appointment as a technical official for the championship.
According to him, the presence of both athletes and an official from Akwa Ibom gives the state strong representation at the continental event, with assurances of continued support from the ministry.
