GOLDEN STRENGTH: Edidiong Joseph Umoafia Shatters Games Record to Claim Weightlifting Gold for Team Nigeria
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND — Team Nigeria’s brilliant campaign at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games reached another monumental height on Monday as star weightlifter Edidiong Joseph Umoafia delivered a masterclass performance to capture the Gold Medal in the Men’s 71kg weightlifting division.
Exhibiting composure, grit, and power, Umoafia dominated the competition from his very first attempt. He established an early lead by executing a 147kg lift in the Snatch phase. He followed up with a 172kg lift in the Clean & Jerk, culminating in a combined total lift of 319kg.
This achievement set a new Commonwealth Games Record, surpassing his competitors and placing him firmly atop the podium. Samoa’s John Lautafi Tafi took silver with a total of 314kg, while Ezekiel Moses of Nauru earned bronze with 310kg.
Match Summary & Performance Highlights:
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Event: Men’s 71kg Weightlifting Final
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Snatch: 147 kg
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Clean & Jerk: 172 kg
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Total Lift: 319 kg (New Games Record)
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Result: GOLD MEDAL 🥇
Umoafia’s triumph marks Team Nigeria’s 4th Gold Medal at the Glasgow 2026 Games, continuing the country’s commanding display on the international stage.
Commonwealth Games Nigeria extends its warmest congratulations to Edidiong Umoafia, his coaching crew, and the entire weightlifting delegation for bringing pride and glory to the nation.
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