Joel Ajayi
Team Nigeria made an emphatic start to its campaign at the 2026 Commonwealth Games, launching an early medal rush on the opening day with one gold, one silver, and one bronze medal in para powerlifting.
Leading the charge was Esther Nworgu, who delivered a superb performance in the women’s lightweight para powerlifting event, lifting her way to Team Nigeria’s first gold medal of the Games with a total of 119.0 points.
Nigeria’s celebration continued as Esther Onyema also mounted the podium in the same event, claiming the bronze medal after another impressive display of strength and determination to ensure a double podium finish for the country.
Earlier in the day, seasoned para powerlifter Roland Ezuruike had opened Nigeria’s medal account by winning the silver medal in the men’s lightweight para powerlifting (Group A) event with a score of 153.9 points, setting the tone for Team Nigeria’s impressive start in Glasgow.
In line with the Federal Government’s renewed commitment to athlete welfare and motivation, the National Sports Commission (NSC) immediately rewarded the medalists at the competition venue.
Gold medalist Esther Nworgu received an instant $5,000 cash reward from the NSC, with an additional $5,000 paid directly into her account, bringing her total reward to $10,000.
Silver medalist Roland Ezuruike was presented with $2,000 at the venue, while another $3,000 was credited to his account, giving him a total reward of $5,000.
Bronze medalist Esther Onyema also earned a combined reward of $5,000, comprising $2,000 presented immediately after the event and $3,000 transferred directly to her account.
The swift financial rewards underscore President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to recognizing and motivating Nigerian athletes for outstanding performances on the international stage.
With medals already flowing on the opening day, Team Nigeria has sent a strong message of intent as the country pursues its ambitious target of a successful Commonwealth Games campaign.
