BY EBIPADE NIEKETIEN
TECHNICAL Representative of the Weightlifting Federation of Nigeria, Mrs Safiya Onubaye, has expressed optimism that Nigeria has the talent to dominate the world stage in weightlifting.
Onubaye, who spoke to journalists in Asaba after the conclusion of weightlifting event s at the ongoing National Youth Games, said several promising athletes were discovered at the competition and have the potential to succeed the current generation of lifters.
She explained that the Youth Games had become a vital platform for nurturing emerging talent, adding that the federation was determined to build on the foundation provided by the annual event to raise future champions.
“The Nat ional Yout h Games allows us to identify young lifters with great potential,” she said. “What we are doing is to groom them gradually so they can take over from the ageing athletes and sustain Nigeria’s dominance in the sport.”
Onubaye also dismissed claims of age falsification in weightlifting, stating that the physical demands of the sport often make athletes appear older than they actually are.
“Falsifying age in weightlifting is difficult because when an athlete is pursuing the sport as a career, the intensity of training and exertion naturally makes them look older than their real age,” she explained.
She further called on state governments and sports authorities to invest more in grassroots development, stressing that adequate support and proper nurturing would help young athletes remain focused and committed to achieving their goals.
According to her, with sustained investment and proper guidance, Nigeria has what it takes to dominate weightlifting globally in the coming years.
“We won 19 gold and four silver medals, but no bronze in swimming. The secret behind our performance was that the Lagos State government is trying a lot concerning swimming. You know that Lagos is surrounded by water. Lagos and we have different swimming clubs in Lagos.
“We brought four coaches to this youth games, which has never happened before. So you can see that we really came prepared. During the trials, we selected the best in Lagos state. We have been preparing since after the last youth games’’ he said.
