Senator supports Kogi-born athlete with N2m

The Senator representing Kogi Central in the National Assembly, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has hosted Kogi-born sports sensation, Matthew Ovayioza Sarah, at her Abuja residence to celebrate her remarkable achievements in weightlifting and arm wrestling.

Ovayioza gained global recognition after clinching two gold medals at the Weightlifting World Championship in Manama, Bahrain, marking her as one of Nigeria’s brightest sports stars.

During the meeting, she presented her medals to the senator and discussed her need for financial sponsorship and access to advanced training facilities to prepare for future competitions.

According to a statement by Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Chief Press Secretary, Orogbonlo Isreal, the senator commended Ovayioza for her resilience and dedication amid numerous challenges and encouraged her to remain focused.

“Your achievements are a source of pride for Kogi and Nigeria. We will ensure you receive the support you need to excel further,” she said.

In a gesture of support, Akpoti-Uduaghan provided ₦2 million to the athlete and pledged to seek additional resources from relevant government bodies to aid her career.

Ovayioza has an impressive record of accomplishments, including, two gold medals at the Weightlifting World Championship, Bahrain (2024), three gold medals at the Nigerian National Weightlifting Championship, Abuja (2024), and two gold medals at the Armwrestling African Championship, Accra (2023).

Others are a bronze medal at the Nigerian National Sports Festival, Delta (2022), one gold and one silver medal at the National Armwrestling Championship, Lagos (2022), and two gold medals at the Bamitonia Armwrestling Championship, Lagos (2023).

She also holds three national records in weightlifting, including a snatch lift of 117kg, a clean and jerk lift of 138kg, and a total lift of 255kg. Ovayioza is currently ranked World No. 3 in the 76kg weightlifting category.

Beyond weightlifting, she is a two-time African champion in arm wrestling’s 71kg category and a Nigerian champion multiple times.

Akpoti-Uduaghan’s support underscores her commitment to fostering grassroots talent and ensuring that Nigerian athletes receive the backing they need to excel on the global stage.