Esther Nworgu made history for Nigeria at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, winning a silver medal in the women’s 41kg para-powerlifting event. Nworgu delivered a standout performance, breaking two Paralympic records with lifts of 112kg and 118kg, narrowly missing out on gold to China’s Zhe Cui, who lifted 119kg.
This impressive feat secured Nigeria’s second medal at the Games, further boosting the nation’s hopes after a challenging outing at the Olympics. Earlier in the week, Eniola Bolaji also made history, winning Nigeria’s first Paralympic medal in para-badminton with a bronze – the first-ever badminton medal for Africa at the Paralympic or Olympic level.
Nworgu’s performance showcased resilience and determination, starting her medal journey with a 106kg lift. She followed this up with 112kg, and then a record-breaking 118kg in her final attempt, sealing her place on the podium. Brazil’s Lara de Lima took bronze with a 109kg lift.
The Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Enoh, praised Nworgu for her outstanding performance. “Esther has made the entire nation proud with her silver medal and record-setting lifts. Her perseverance is an inspiration to us all,” Enoh said. He expressed confidence in the entire team, highlighting the government’s support and urging the athletes to continue pushing for podium finishes.
As Team Nigeria progresses through the Paralympic Games, fans are optimistic about adding more medals to the tally. The nation is looking to build on its success from the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, where it won 10 medals, including four golds.
With Nworgu’s remarkable performance, Nigeria’s Paralympic campaign remains a source of pride and inspiration for the country.
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