By Solomon OKPO | Sports Recorder
Reigning African champion in the men’s 67kg weightlifting category, Edidiong Umofia, has set his sights on clinching three gold medals for Akwa Ibom State at the 22nd National Sports Festival, which kicks off today, Saturday, May 18, 2025, in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The 23-year-old athlete, who has built a reputation for consistency and excellence in previous festivals, told journalists shortly after his arrival in Abeokuta that he was confident of maintaining his golden streak.
“My target is to win three gold medals for Akwa Ibom State here. There’s no doubt about that. I’ve prepared enough to produce good results,” Umofia stated.
Umofia’s track record in the national sports arena supports his confidence. At his debut in the 2018 Abuja edition, he secured two gold and one silver medals. He followed up with a clean sweep of three gold medals at Edo 2020 in Benin City, and repeated the feat at Asaba 2022.
With the Gateway Games running until May 30, Umofia has assured fans and supporters back home that he is ready to deliver once again.
“I’ve done it before, and I’ll do it again,” he said with quiet determination.
