Team Nigeria picks first gold medal in Tokyo

Tijani Latifat has become the first athlete to pick Nigeria’s medal in theTokyo2020 in 47 kg lifting 107 kg to emerge the winner.

The Ogun state born athlete, after her failed first attempt lifted successfully in the third attempt 107kg to pick gold medal thus becoming the first Nigerian to pick gold at the ongoing Paralympics Games .

Her attempt for works record in 117kg failed as she could not make it but got herself the Paralympics record of 107kg which threw the Tokyo International Forum venue of the event into wild jubilation.

Speaking with newsmen shortly after the medal presentation, Latifat commended the minister of youth and sport for his vision for the athletes saying she is dedicating her success to the Almighty Allah, adding that her victory will spur her colleagues to win medal for the country.

In his reaction, Chef de Mission, Mr Peter Nelson having expressed happiness with the gold medal said the athlete would be adequately honoured and be paid on the spot cash award promised by the Federal government.

Omolara Ayoade