The Nigeria Weightlifting Federation (NWF) has celebrated a monumental achievement by star lifter Rafiatu Folashade Lawal, who made history at the 2025 International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) World Championships in Forde, Norway, by winning three silver medals — the first Nigerian ever to reach such heights on the global stage.

 

Competing in the women’s 58kg category, Lawal delivered a commanding performance, lifting 101kg in the snatch, 128kg in the clean and jerk, and totaling 229kg. She finished just behind North Korea’s Kim Il-Gyong, who swept the gold medals with a world record total of 236kg. Olympic champion Kuo Hsing-chun of Chinese Taipei claimed two bronze medals with a total of 224kg, while Ulrey Miranda Eleanor of the United States secured a bronze in the snatch with 98kg.

 

Lawal’s feat is not only a personal milestone but also a national landmark, surpassing the previous best by Nigerian lifter Ruth Imoleayo Ayodele, who won two silver and one bronze medal in the 64kg category at the 2023 IWF World Championships in Saudi Arabia.

 

President of the Nigeria Weightlifting Federation, Ibrahim Abdul Aladi, praised Lawal’s performance, calling it a testament to her relentless dedication and a shining example of Nigerian excellence on the world stage.

 

“Rafiatu has once again proven that Nigerian weightlifters can stand tall globally,” Aladi said. “Her achievement in Norway is the result of resilience, focus, and the relentless pursuit of greatness.”

 

Aladi also expressed gratitude to the National Sports Commission and the NWF Board for their continued support, emphasizing the importance of sustained investment in Nigeria’s weightlifting program.

 

“We are committed to ensuring our athletes participate regularly in international competitions to remain competitive. Lawal’s success is proof that with the right support, our athletes can achieve even greater heights,” he added.

 

Lawal’s performance builds on a decorated career, having previously claimed gold at the 2019 African Games in Rabat, the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, and the 2023 African Games in Accra.

 

Looking ahead, Aladi made a passionate appeal to corporate organizations and well-meaning Nigerians to partner with the Federation in supporting the next generation of champions.

 

“With adequate funding and sponsorship, we can produce more world-class athletes like Rafiatu Lawal. Our eyes are now on the upcoming Commonwealth Games and the Olympic Games, and we need all the support we can get,” he said.

 

Lawal’s triumph is a powerful reminder of what Nigerian athletes can achieve with hard work, support, and belief — lifting not just weights, but also the hopes of a nation.