In a significant boost for Nigerian sports representation on the continental stage, renowned weightlifting official and former Olympian Coach Lawrence Iquaibom has been elected into the Technical Committee of the Weightlifting Federation of Africa (WFA).

The election took place during the African Weightlifting Congress held in Mahebourg, Mauritius, drawing key stakeholders and sports administrators from across the continent to shape the future of weightlifting in Africa.

Coach Iquaibom, a respected figure in the sport and retired Director of Sports in Akwa Ibom State, continues to build on his legacy, having previously served as an International Technical Official with the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF). His new role places Nigeria at the heart of technical decision-making for African weightlifting.

The congress also saw Mr. Khaled Mhalhel of Libya re-elected as President of the WFA, with Dr. Kevin Duploy of South Africa elected as 1st Vice President. Other members joining Iquaibom on the Technical Committee include Mr. John Ogolla (Kenya), Mr. Horst Sayler (Eswatini), and Mr. Faried (Morocco).

The elections were observed by Ursula Papandrea, the 1st Vice President of the International Weightlifting Federation, underscoring the global significance of the event.

The Congress leads into the highly anticipated 2025 African Weightlifting Championships, set to run from April 20 to 28.