Team Nigeria Departs for Historic Para Powerlifting World Championships in Cairo

Nigeria’s para powerlifting team has departed the country for the 11th World Para Powerlifting Championships, scheduled to take place in Cairo, Egypt, from October 9 to 18.

This year’s edition marks a historic milestone as the World Championships will be hosted on African soil for the very first time—signifying a new chapter for para sports on the continent.

The first batch of Team Nigeria athletes left on Tuesday amid cheers and encouragement from officials, fans, and supporters, while the second batch is expected to depart from Lagos today (Wednesday) to complete the full contingent.

In a statement on Tuesday, the National Sports Commission expressed strong confidence in the team’s preparedness and determination to sustain Nigeria’s dominance in global para powerlifting. The Commission reaffirmed the government’s full backing for the athletes, underscoring its dedication to promoting inclusivity and excellence in sports.

Nigeria remains a powerhouse in para powerlifting, having secured numerous medals at international events, including the Paralympic Games and previous World Championships.

The Cairo tournament is expected to draw top para powerlifters from around the world, all competing for prestigious world titles across various weight categories. The event also marks a significant step forward for Africa’s visibility and investment in disability sports.