In a spectacular display of strength and determination, Onyinyechi Mark claimed Nigeria’s first gold medal at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, breaking her own world record twice in the women’s +61kg para-powerlifting category. Mark’s final lift of 150 kg secured her place atop the podium and etched her name in the record books.
The Minister of Sports Development, John Enoh, applauded Mark’s historic achievement, praising her for not only winning the gold but for raising the bar—literally and figuratively—by setting a new Para-Powerlifting world record.
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“This performance is truly exceptional,” Senator Enoh said in his congratulatory message. “Today, you represented our great nation at the Paralympics, earning Nigeria’s first gold medal at the Games. You lifted 147 kg to break the Paralympic record, and then, with remarkable determination, you conquered 150 kg to set a new world record.”
The 23-year-old powerlifter began her gold-winning journey with a strong lift of 140 kg, which set the tone for her dominance in the competition. She then raised the stakes to 145 kg, surpassing the existing Paralympic record by 3 kg. Mark’s momentum continued as she lifted 147 kg to break her own world record and secure the gold medal.
In a stunning finale, just 10 minutes later, Mark returned to lift an astounding 150 kg, breaking her own record yet again and firmly establishing herself as a world champion.
“You have brought immense pride and joy to Nigerians,” Enoh added. “This victory is a testament to the resilient Nigerian spirit.”
China’s Jianjin Cui claimed silver with a lift of 140 kg, while Mexico’s Amalia Perez Vazquez took bronze with a lift of 135 kg.
Mark’s win comes on the heels of other strong performances by Team Nigeria at the Paralympics, including Esther Nworgu’s silver in the women’s 41 kg category and Eniola Bolaji’s bronze in Para badminton.
With more events still to come, Onyinyechi Mark’s gold medal has set a promising tone for Nigeria’s continued success at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.
