Nigerian powerlifter Onyinyechi Mark has etched her name in history after winning Nigeria’s first gold medal at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, breaking both the Paralympic and World records. Mark lifted a staggering 147kg in the women’s powerlifting event, an achievement that not only secured her the gold medal but also shattered her own previous world record.
Mark, hailing from Umuahia, Abia State, has been a standout athlete in international powerlifting for years. Her victory in Paris cements her position as one of the greatest Nigerian powerlifters of all time. This is a significant moment for both Nigeria and the Paralympics, as Mark’s gold medal marks a high point in Nigeria’s Paralympic journey, continuing the country’s proud tradition in powerlifting.
The 147kg lift was nothing short of breathtaking, a feat that had the global audience in awe. By surpassing her earlier world record, Mark demonstrated immense strength, determination, and resilience. The path to this victory was one of relentless training, and her performance in Paris has been described as a triumph of the human spirit.
Onyinyechi’s record-breaking lift places her alongside Nigeria’s elite powerlifters, following in the footsteps of Paralympic legends like Lucy Ejike and Paul Kehinde. The significance of her achievement goes beyond the medal—she has inspired a generation of athletes, particularly women and those with disabilities, showcasing what can be achieved through hard work and perseverance.
