The news as it trends, Nigerians are making significant strides at the Paralympic Games in Paris.
Read it below if you missed it.
The following account provides an overview of their inspiring story, which is essential for understanding the impact of their participation in the event.
Nigerian athletes have demonstrated remarkable competitiveness at the Paralympic Games in Paris, with Team Nigeria’s Esther Nworgu achieving significant success in para powerlifting.
& Mariam Eniola Bolaji, making history as the first African athlete to secure a Paralympic medal in badminton.
Nworgu earned a silver medal in the Women’s 41kg category by lifting an impressive 118kg, marking Nigeria’s second medal in this event.
Her performance was particularly outstanding as she broke the Paralympic record on two occasions.
Despite facing considerable challenges, including a dislocated shoulder just two days prior to the competition, Nworgu expressed profound joy at her accomplishment, describing the experience as “like heaven.”
The 21-year-old athlete, who lost the use of her legs at a young age, exhibited extraordinary resilience by competing with a serious injury that affected her ability to lift with both arms.
In a heartfelt address to the media, Nworgu shared her astonishment at winning a medal under such circumstances, emphasizing the mental strength she believes is inherent in Nigerians, asserting that a positive mindset can lead to remarkable achievements.
In a similar vein, Mariam Eniola Bolaji made history as the first African athlete to win a Paralympic medal in badminton, securing a bronze in the Women’s Singles SL3 category.
The 18-year-old showcased her exceptional skills by defeating Ukraine’s Kozyna Oksana with a commanding score of 21-9, 21-9.
This victory came after a challenging semi-final loss on September 1, 2024, underscoring her resilience and determination.
The Paris 2024 Olympic Games took place from July 26 to August 11, followed closely by the Paralympic Games from August 28 to September 8, during which Nigerian athletes continued to assert their presence on the international stage.
In addition to the aforementioned, an outstanding display of athleticism was also demonstrated by Nigeria’s Onyinyechi Mark, who secured the country’s first gold medal alongside other exceptional athletes from Nigeria, while setting a new world record.
See some of their photos below.
Onyinyechi Mark has shattered the Paralympic record in the women’s 61kg powerlifting division by successfully lifting an impressive 145kg.
As seen below. The following outlines Nigerian athletes’ achievements in the Paralympics 2024, to date, including the medals they have earned.
Image: The photograph features Esther Nworgu (on the left) alongside other athletes following her achievement of a silver medal in para powerlifting in Paris. / Instagram
Image: The 18-year-old star, Mariam Eniola Bolaji. / On X
Image: Onyinyechi Mark on X.
Image: Courtesy. Paris Olympic 2024.
Images: Via Paralympic Paris Olympic 2024.
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