There is a wave of excitement and national pride as Team Nigeria’s para powerlifting contingent departed on Tuesday, October 7, for the 11th World Para Powerlifting Championships set to hold in Cairo, Egypt, from October 9 to 18, 2025.

This year’s edition marks a historic milestone as the first-ever World Championships to be hosted on African soil, representing a major breakthrough for the sport on the continent—and a fitting stage for Nigeria, one of the dominant forces in global para powerlifting.

The first batch of Nigerian athletes left the country to a rousing send-off, with cheers and encouragement from sports officials, fans, and supporters. The second batch is scheduled to depart tomorrow, October 8, from Lagos, completing the full delegation representing the nation.

“We’re confident in our athletes’ readiness and drive,” said an official from the National Sports Commission (NSC). “They’ve trained hard, they’re focused, and they carry the hopes of millions of Nigerians with them.”

The NSC, through its leadership, reiterated full backing for the team, highlighting the Federal Government’s ongoing commitment to inclusivity, excellence, and the empowerment of athletes with disabilities.

“Para sports remain a cornerstone of Nigeria’s sporting success, and we are proud to support our athletes as they compete on the world stage,” an NSC spokesperson said.

Nigeria has long been a global powerhouse in para powerlifting, with a track record of medals at Paralympic Games, World Championships, and Commonwealth Games. With the added significance of Cairo 2025 being hosted on African soil, the pressure—and opportunity—is even greater.

As Team Nigeria settles into final preparations in Cairo, expectations are high that the contingent will not only compete, but inspire, uplift, and once again dominate the podium.