Team Nigeria has announced multiple Paralympic and world champion Folashade Oluwafemiayo as the captain of the nation’s contingent to the upcoming Commonwealth Games.

The decision reflects the team’s deliberate commitment to appointing a leader whose achievements, professionalism, and exemplary character embody the values of Nigerian sports.

Speaking on the appointment, Director General of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade emphasized that the selection was intentional and based on merit.

“We are intentional about the selection of our team captain. Folashade Oluwafemiayo is the ideal choice, having consistently demonstrated exceptional professionalism, resilience, and excellence throughout her distinguished career. She is a multiple gold medalist, a former world champion, and one of Nigeria’s most decorated para athletes. Her leadership qualities and winning mentality make her an inspiration to every member of Team Nigeria.”

Oluwafemiayo has established herself as one of the world’s finest para powerlifters, winning multiple Paralympic, World Championship, and Commonwealth titles while setting world records. Her remarkable consistency on the international stage has made her a symbol of excellence in Nigerian sports.

Her appointment also recognizes the outstanding contributions of Nigeria’s para athletes, who have consistently delivered exceptional performances at major international competitions. Over the years, the country’s para athletes have been among Nigeria’s most successful ambassadors, accounting for a significant share of the nation’s medals at the Paralympic Games, Commonwealth Games, African Games, and World Championships.

Folashade is a four-time world champion and two time Olympic gold medalist.

In 2021, she won the gold medal in her event at the 2021 World Para Powerlifting Championships held in Tbilisi, Georgia. At the event, she also set a new world record of 152.5 kg.

She competed at the 2022 Commonwealth Games where she won a gold medal in the heavyweight event. 

Team Nigeria heads to the Commonwealth Games with a blend of experienced champions and promising young talents across various sports, united by a shared determination to represent the nation with distinction.

The 2026 Commonwealth Games will take place in Glasgow, Scotland, from July 23 to August 2, 2026.

The NSC stated that Team Nigeria remains committed to excellence, discipline, sportsmanship, and the pursuit of podium finishes that will make the nation proud.

The experienced goalkeeper has been without a club since parting ways with Chippa United earlier this year, though his reputation has continued to attract interest from several markets.

As previously reported by the Siya crew, clubs in Israel had been monitoring Nwabali’s situation.

However, fresh information suggests that interest from Saudi Arabia has now moved to the forefront.

Sources close to the player have indicated that a Saudi Arabian club has been impressed by Nwabali’s profile and is seriously considering a move for the Super Eagles shot-stopper.

“At the moment, Saudi Arabia looks like the most likely destination. The club involved likes his profile and believes he can add experience and quality to their squad. There could be some developments by the end of this week if everything goes according to plan,” a source told Tidesports source.

The source added that Nwabali’s standing in international football has played a significant role in attracting interest from abroad.

“Playing regularly for Nigeria has helped him a lot. Clubs look at his international experience and performances and see him as a goalkeeper who has competed at a very high level. That has made him appealing to potential suitors,” the source explained.