Senator Natasha Hosts Kogi-Born Gold Medalist, Supports Her with ₦2 Million

Senator representing Kogi Central in the National Assembly, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has hosted Kogi-born sports sensation Matthew Ovayioza Sarah at her Abuja residence, celebrating 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.
A statement by her chief Press Secretary Orogbonlo Isreal in a statement quoted her to have commended Ovayioza for her resilience and dedication, despite facing 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, Senator 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, 2 Gold Medals in Weightlifting World Championship, Bahrain (2024), 3 Gold Medals  in Nigerian National Weightlifting Championship, Abuja (2024) and  2 Gold Medals in Armwrestling African Championship, Accra (2023).

Others are 1 Bronze Medal Nigerian National Sports Festival, Delta (2022) and 1 Gold & 1 Silver Medal at National Armwrestling Championship, Lagos (2022) and 2 Gold Medals Bamitonia Armwrestling Championship, Lagos (2023)

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

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

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