Commonwealth Games 2026 champion Onome Didih wary of anti-doping rules

Nigeria’s Onome Omolola Didih says anti-doping requirements prevent her from consuming food, drinks or medication without careful consideration. The 22-year-old won gold in the women’s 53kg weightlifting category at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, where she also set three world records.

Didih said athletes must monitor their daily habits closely, both to avoid prohibited substances and to remain within the weight limit for their event. She urged younger lifters to treat medication and nutrition as part of their sporting responsibilities because competitors can be subjected to drug testing.

Her advice includes being cautious even with items athletes are commonly encouraged to use, such as protein products and large amounts of water. She said anything taken into the body requires attention under the anti-doping regulations that govern international weightlifting.

Didih, who also won the 2026 African Weightlifting Championship, said she works as a fashion designer when her training schedule becomes lighter after competitions. The activity helps her remain occupied and provides an additional source of income.

She described life as a sports personality in Nigeria as neither wholly easy nor wholly difficult, saying progress depends on commitment, patience and dedication. In her account, athletes pass through several stages before reaching better financial rewards, while any earnings may also need to support people who have helped them.

Didih recalled receiving support from her parents and her coach, Ene, during her early development. Her mother, who is now late, introduced her to weightlifting, while Ene helped meet her basic needs around training, including food and vitamins. Didih said those contributions remain important to her and that she remembers the people who supported her whenever she earns money through the sport.

She added that success has improved her circumstances since she began representing Nigeria internationally, but maintained that emerging athletes must continue working through difficult periods. For Didih, discipline remains central to both avoiding anti-doping violations and reaching the highest level.