In a stunning display of strength and determination, Nigerian powerlifter Onyinyechi Mark has etched her name in the history books by winning the country’s first gold medal at the ongoing 2024 Paralympics in Paris. Competing in the women’s 61kg powerlifting category, the 23-year-old lifted an astounding 150kg, surpassing the Paralympic record and setting a new world benchmark.
On Friday, Mark faced fierce competition, defeating China’s Cui Jianjin, who earned silver with a 140kg lift, and Mexico’s Amelia Perez, who secured bronze with a 130kg lift. Despite the intensity of the event, Mark’s remarkable achievement captured the attention of not just her competitors, but also the global audience watching in awe.
Following her victory, Nigeria’s Minister of Sports, John Enoh, took to Twitter to celebrate Mark’s outstanding accomplishment. In a heartfelt message, he expressed the pride of the nation, saying, “Congratulations Onyinyechi Mark! You’ve hoisted the flag of our great nation high. Not only did you break the Paralympic record with a 147kg lift, but you went further, lifting 150kg to set a new world record. Bravo! You have brought immense pride to Nigeria, and we couldn’t be more proud.”
This victory marks a significant moment for Team Nigeria at the 2024 Paralympics, as it brings their medal tally to three. Earlier in the games, Eniola Bolaji made her own mark in history, becoming the first African to win a medal in Para-Badminton with a bronze in the Women’s Singles SL3 category. Bolaji triumphed over Ukraine’s Oksana Kozyna with a decisive 2-0 win in straight sets (21-9, 21-9).
Additionally, Esther Nworgu added to Nigeria’s success with a silver medal in the women’s 41kg para-powerlifting event. The performance of Nigeria’s para-powerlifting team continues to stand out on the world stage. Their prowess was previously showcased in 2021, when they dominated the Para-powerlifting World Cup in Manchester, winning eight gold and three silver medals to outperform 18 other nations.
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Onyinyechi Mark, already a celebrated figure in Nigeria’s para-sports community, was part of that victorious 2021 team, earning silver in the women’s 55kg category. Her rise to gold in Paris serves as both a personal redemption and a further testament to Nigeria’s strength in para-powerlifting.
As the Paralympics continue, all eyes remain on Team Nigeria as they push forward, representing the resilient spirit and unmatched talent of their athletes on the global stage. Mark’s world-record performance is not just a triumph for her, but a moment of national pride that will resonate with Nigerians for years to come.
