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Didih Onome Omolola Eyes Commonwealth Games Gold Amidst Praises On National Sports Commission Leadership
African weightlifting champion Didi Onome Omolola has declared herself ready for the Commonwealth Games, expressing confidence that months of intensive preparation and the support of the National Sports Commission (NSC) and the Nigeria Weightlifting Federation have equipped her to compete for gold.
The accomplished lifter, who competes in the women’s 53kg category, described representing Nigeria on the international stage as the realization of a lifelong ambition.
“Representing Nigeria has always been my dream, and I’m happy that my dream and vision have come true.”
Omolola heads into the Games with an impressive résumé that places her among Nigeria’s brightest medal hopes. Her achievements include a fourth-place finish at the 2024 World Weightlifting Championships, gold medals at the African Championships in Mauritius and Egypt, gold at the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championships in India, and recognition as Africa’s number one-ranked athlete and African record holder in the women’s 53kg category.
Reflecting on her preparations, the African champion said the rigorous training programme and unwavering support from the Nigeria Weightlifting Federation have boosted her confidence ahead of the competition.
“Preparing for the Commonwealth Games has been one of my biggest inspirations. The training has been very rigorous, and our federation president, Mr. Abdullahi, has been very supportive. That support has given me the confidence and courage to prepare well for the Games.”
She also praised the Federal Government and the leadership of the National Sports Commission for providing athletes with quality facilities and an enabling environment through the national camping programme and overseas training tour.
“I appreciate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Chairman Shehu Dikko, and Director-General Bukola Olopade. Without their support, I don’t think we would be here. This is my first time in the UK and my first Commonwealth Games. The preparations have been top-notch—from the camping in Nigeria to the training tour in the UK. The training facilities, accommodation and environment are excellent and very conducive for athletes.”
Omolola appealed to Nigerians to continue supporting Team Nigeria throughout the Games, noting that the encouragement and prayers of the nation will inspire athletes to perform at their best.
“We are well prepared, but this is sport. We need your prayers and your support so that we can come out in flying colours, make the nation proud, make ourselves proud and make all Nigerians proud.”
As Team Nigeria intensifies its quest for medals at the Commonwealth Games, Omolola is widely regarded as one of the country’s strongest prospects in weightlifting, carrying the hopes of a nation with a proud tradition of success in the sport.
*Additional Credit* Nathaniel Mobolade
