By Amaechi Agbo

The President, Nigeria Weightlifting Federation, NWF, Dr Ibrahim Abdul has charged the Team Nigeria weightlifters at the 22nd Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, England to aspire for gold medals as weightlifting events begin today.

The weightlifting events at the Birmingham 2022 will kickoff 30 July and end 3 August 2022, at the National Exhibition Centre in Solihull, spread across sixteen weight classes (eight per gender).

While addressing the lifters, Nigeria Weightlifting Federation President, Dr Ibrahim Abdul commended them for the lofty heights they have attained as well as qualifying for the Games. He however implored them to remain focused on the challenges ahead and aspire to make the country proud.

“I want to commend the athletes for their commitment and steadfastness. You have remained professional in tralning ahead of the Commonwealth Games and here we are. It is time to forget all you have achieved in the past and aspire for a new feat, be Commonwealth Champions

“The country is behind you and that is why the government made it possible for you to be here. But there are expectations and I have no doubt in my mind that you will do Nigeria proud.

He thanked the coaching crew and the sports ministry for their support

“Without the coaches, I don’t think we would have been here. So I want to thank them particularly for all they have inculcated in you.

“The federal government, through the sports ministry is very supportive. They have been our pillar and we remain grateful. However, it is important that we acknowledge their support more with podium finishes,” he stated.

Three Nigerians weightlifters will be in action on Day One of weightlifting event today.

Stellar Kingsley Peter will compete in 49kg female category, her compatriot Olarinoye Adenike Adijat will compete in 55kg category.

Adijat won silver and bronze medals at the 2021 International Weightlifting Federation, IWF Championship in Uzbekistan in December last year

In the male category, Emmanuel Appah will be competing in 61kg

Nigeria is represented by 9 weightlifters made up of 7 females and 2 males