Bayelsa State has etched its name in history by winning the maiden Engr Habu Gumel National Open Weightlifting Championship, held in Abuja from December 1 to 3, 2024. Competing against 17 states and the Nigeria Police Force, Bayelsa emerged champions with an astounding 30 medals, including 17 gold, 11 silver, and 2 bronze. Their achievement reaffirms the state’s commitment to nurturing athletic excellence and maintaining its stature as a powerhouse in Nigerian weightlifting.
Trailing behind, Oyo State secured the second position with a total of 12 medals, comprising 9 gold and 3 bronze. Meanwhile, perennial weightlifting contenders Delta State, known for their dominance at the 2022 National Sports Festival, finished third with 6 gold, 9 silver, and 6 bronze medals. Other notable performances came from Plateau, Edo, and Akwa Ibom States, reflecting the growing competitiveness in the sport.
Bayelsa’s remarkable showing is a testament to their structured approach to sports development. With robust training programs, strategic investments, and a focus on youth development, the state continues to lead by example in weightlifting. “This victory is a product of years of hard work and a clear vision for weightlifting in Bayelsa,” said a team official.
The championship not only celebrated athleticism but also highlighted the untapped potential in Nigerian weightlifting. With states like Nasarawa, Katsina, and Zamfara yet to claim medals, the event serves as a clarion call for greater participation and support for the sport across the country. As Bayelsa looks ahead to the National Sports Festival, their dominance in Abuja is a promising precursor to even greater achievements.
