The Nigeria Weightlifting Federation (NWF) has confirmed the death of former national champion Gbenga Olupona, who passed away on Monday, September 15, after a brief illness.
Olupona was one of Nigeria’s most accomplished lifters of the early 2000s. He came to national attention at the 2003 Afro-Asian Games, where he dominated the Men’s 56kg category, winning three gold medals. Later that year, he competed at the All Africa Games in Abuja, where he added another gold and two silver medals to his record. In 2007, at the All Africa Games in Algiers, he continued his medal haul, securing three bronze medals in the Men’s 62kg category.
Paying tribute, the President of the NWF, Dr. Ibrahim Abdul Aladi, said: “Gbenga Olupona was an asset to Nigeria weightlifting whose life was sadly cut short at a time when his wealth of wisdom and experience was greatly needed. We pray for comfort for his family.”
NWF Technical Director and former teammate, Sefiya Onubaye Ahuozia, described him as “a jovial, easy-going, and dedicated individual whose absence will be deeply felt within the weightlifting community.”
The NWF said Olupona’s career, marked by consistency and medal-winning performances, had set a benchmark for future generations. It extended condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues, affirming that his contribution to Nigerian weightlifting would be remembered as part of the country’s sporting history.
