Rafiatu Lawal made history at the 2025 IWF World Championships in Forde, Norway. On Sunday, she won three silver medals in the women’s 58kg category.
She became Africa’s first medallist at this year’s event. North Korea’s Kim Il-Gyong took gold with a world record. Chinese Taipei’s Kuo Hsing-Chun claimed bronze.
Tough Battle in 58kg Category
Kim led Lawal by 3kg after the snatch. She lifted 132kg in the clean and jerk, totaling a record 236kg. However, officials rejected Kim’s final 134kg attempt.
Lawal, also losing a lift on review, scored 101kg in the snatch and 128kg in the clean and jerk. Her total was 229kg. Kuo secured bronze with 224kg. Miranda Ulrey from the USA took snatch bronze with 98kg.
Nigeria’s Weightlifting Breakthrough
Lawal’s three silvers mark Nigeria’s best-ever haul at the Rafiatu Lawal World Championships. She outdid Ruth Ayodele’s 2023 record of two silvers and one bronze.
Lawal’s past golds include the 2019 African Games, 2022 Commonwealth Games, and 2023 African Games. She also placed fifth at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
National Leaders Celebrate Lawal
The National Sports Commission praised Lawal’s success. Chairman Shehu Dikko said, “Her Rafiatu Lawal World Championships performance shows Nigeria’s strength.”
He credited the Nigeria Weightlifting Federation’s efforts. Director General Bukola Olopade added, “Lawal inspires young athletes. Her medals fuel Olympic dreams.”
Federation Lauds Her Grit
The Nigeria Weightlifting Federation hailed Lawal’s drive. President Ibrahim Aladi noted, “Her Rafiatu Lawal World Championships success proves our global potential.
She’s focused and relentless.” Her silvers highlight Nigeria’s rising status in the sport.
Future Olympic Hopes
Lawal’s historic medals boost Nigeria’s weightlifting profile. Her Rafiatu Lawal World Championships achievement sets high expectations for the 2026 Commonwealth Games and 2028 Olympics. She continues to elevate Nigeria’s sporting legacy.
RELATED NEWS: Flying Eagles Reach U-20 World Cup Round of 16
Armenian Dram
Ghana Cedi
Gambian Dalasi
Guinea Franc
Nigerian Naira
CFA Franc BEAC
