Abia State has continued to make a strong showing at the ongoing South-East Zonal Open Weightlifting Championship in Umuahia, emerging as the leading state on the medal table with four gold, one silver and one bronze medal as of press time.
The championship, which has brought together weightlifters from states across the South-East, entered its final day on Friday, September 25, 2026, with athletes battling for honours in various male and female weight categories.
In the women’s 49kg category, Anthony Onyenaobi Chidiamara of Imo State claimed the gold medal after recording a total lift of 72kg. Friday Mirabel of Ebonyi State finished second with 65kg, while Abia State’s Sunday Rejoice took the bronze medal after lifting 62kg.
The women’s 53kg category also produced a strong performance from Imo State, with Nwokeleme Chikodi taking the gold medal with a total lift of 92kg. Cynthia Lawrence of Abia State secured the silver medal with a total lift of 70kg.
In the men’s 55kg category, host state Abia recorded another gold medal through Divine Bernard, who produced an impressive total lift of 155kg. Chimaobi Igwe of Anambra State finished second with 140kg, while Nwokeleme Chukwuemeka of Imo State took third place with 100kg.
Abia also dominated the men’s 60kg category, where Vitalis Eze emerged champion with a remarkable total lift of 205kg. Divine Chidubem of Ebonyi State claimed silver with 150kg, while Chidume Nwabuife of Anambra State settled for bronze after lifting 135kg.
The men’s 65kg category saw another gold medal go to Abia State, with Innocent Onyedikachi recording a total lift of 240kg. Chukwuka Morka of Anambra State came second with 180kg, while Bassey Angelo of Enugu State finished third with 125kg.
In the men’s 70kg category, Obinna Bright continued Abia’s impressive run, winning gold after lifting an outstanding 255kg. Victory Iwuoha of Imo State took the silver medal with 185kg. The third position in the category was yet to be recorded at the time of filing this report.
With the latest results, Abia State’s medal haul stands at four gold, one silver and one bronze medal as the competition enters its concluding stage.
The championship is expected to officially come to an end today, Friday, September 25.The South-East Zonal Open Weightlifting Championship has provided a platform for athletes from the region to compete, showcase their strength and technical ability, while also promoting the development of weightlifting across the South-East.
