Team Nigeria departed for Santiago, Chile, on Monday evening to compete in the World Para-Powerlifting World Cup, scheduled for August 15–17, 2025. The 10-member squad — eight women and two men — left after a delayed flight, carrying the nation’s hopes for another strong showing on the global stage.

The male contingent includes Roland Ezuruike (Men’s up to 54kg) and Riluwan Idris (Men’s up to 88kg), while the women’s team features Tolulope Ogundolie (up to 45kg), Rukayat Ajiboye (up to 50kg), Esther Oyema (up to 55kg), Franca Anigbogu (up to 61kg), Onyinyechi Mark (up to 67kg), Chiamaka Ani (up to 73kg), Rita Ferdinard (up to 79kg) and Folashade Oluwafemiayo (over 86kg) — several of them multiple world champions and Paralympic medallists.

Speaking before departure, Oluwafemiayo expressed the team’s determination to make the country proud, saying, “We want to thank the sports commission for their support. Our target is to go and bring back the glory to our country.”

Director General of the National Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade, lauded the athletes’ commitment during preparations and urged them to compete with the discipline and focus that have made Nigeria a powerhouse in para-powerlifting. “You are carrying the hopes and pride of millions of Nigerians,” he said. “We believe in your ability to make history once again and bring glory to the nation.”