Powerlifter Esther Nworgu sets new world record of 114kg at African Champs

Para-Powerlifter Esther Nworgu

Powerlifter Esther Nworgu has set a new world record in the women’s -41kg category at the ongoing African Para-Powerlifting Championships in Cairo, Egypt.

Though it was Nworgu’s first African title, she is now the world record holder for that category after lifting 114kg.

The Nigerian surpassed the world record of 111kg which was set by Guo Lingling of China in June.

Also on Friday, Nigeria’s Kafila Almaruf won gold in the women’s 73kg with an African record of 145kg. Folashade Oluwafemiayo also won gold in women’s 86kg lifting 150kg.

Nigeria now has a total of seven medals at the championships— five gold medals and two silver medals.

On day 1 of the championships, Roland Ezuruike opened Nigeria’s account, winning gold in the men’s 54kg lifting a new legend world and African record of 172kg. Paralympic champion Latifat Tijani followed suit with gold in 45kg, lifting an African record of 113kg.

Bose Bejide (120kg in women’s up to 50kg) and Thomas Kure (192kg in men’s up to 65kg) added two silver medals in Nigeria’s impressive haul from their respective categories.