Nigerian powerlifter Onyinyechi Mark made history at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games by securing Nigeria’s first gold medal with a record-breaking performance.
The 23-year-old excelled in the women’s 61kg category, lifting an astounding 150kg to set a new world record, surpassing the previous mark held by fellow Nigerian Lucy Ejike. Mark outperformed her rivals, with China’s Cui Jianjin claiming silver with a 140kg lift, and Mexico’s Amelia Perez taking bronze after lifting 130kg.
Mark’s accomplishment extends Nigeria’s proud tradition of excellence in the Paralympics, particularly in powerlifting, where athletes like Lucy Ejike and Bose Omolayo have set world records. Nigerian athletes have consistently been dominant in the Paralympics, excelling in both powerlifting and track events. At the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, Nigeria secured ten medals, including four golds, further cementing their reputation as one of the leading nations in Paralympic powerlifting.
