Strength sports are gaining momentum in Africa and at the forefront of this movement is Nigeria’s reigning Strongest Man since 2021, Ajeyomi Oluwaseun David also known as David Buffest. His journey from powerlifting to becoming a dominant force in strongman competitions showcases not only physical prowess but also resilience, discipline, and an unrelenting pursuit of […]
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Strength sports are gaining momentum in Africa and at the forefront of this movement is Nigeria’s reigning Strongest Man since 2021, Ajeyomi Oluwaseun David also known as David Buffest. His journey from powerlifting to becoming a dominant force in strongman competitions showcases not only physical prowess but also resilience, discipline, and an unrelenting pursuit of excellence.
In this interview, he shares insights into his rise in strength sports, the challenges of competing at the highest level, and how he is breaking stereotypes while inspiring the next generation of strongman athletes.
I started with powerlifting and American football during my university days, but over time, I transitioned fully into powerlifting. In 2020, I ventured into strongman sports and began training at the National Stadium. Competing in local strongman events in Nigeria helped me refine my skills, and since 2021, I have consistently won national competitions, solidifying my place as Nigeria’s Strongest Man.
Holding this title has been a defining moment in my career. It has given me the platform to inspire young people to embrace strength sports and push their physical limits. Many look up to me as a representative of Nigeria on the international stage, and that has motivated me to continually improve. The title has also pushed me to set new personal goals and strive for greater achievements in the sport.
Strength sports open doors to incredible opportunities. It allows athletes to travel, compete internationally, and step out of their comfort zones. Beyond personal growth, the sport fosters a sense of community, discipline, and resilience, equipping athletes with valuable life skills.
The biggest challenge we face is funding. Strength sports require significant investment in nutrition, training, and recovery, yet sponsorship remains limited. Many of us, including myself, have been self-funding our careers, which is not sustainable in the long run. If more sponsors and stakeholders invest in the sport, it will gain the visibility and support it deserves, allowing African athletes to compete at the global level.
My day starts at 5 a.m. with supplements and a high-protein breakfast, usually eggs and chicken. I then train for about three hours before returning home for another meal and rest. I eat five meals a day and train five times a week. From Monday to Thursday, I focus on bodybuilding, while Fridays are dedicated to strongman-specific training, including stone lifting, car pulls, and truck pulls. These sessions are time-bound, as strongman competitions often require completing events in the shortest possible time.
There are many misconceptions about people with my physique—some assume we are not serious or lack academic depth. However, I have a Bachelor’s degree from Redeemer’s University and a Master’s in Marketing from the University of Lagos. This proves that strength and intellect can go hand in hand. My achievements in both academia and sports have inspired many young people to challenge stereotypes and embrace their full potential.
David Buffest, Nigeria’s strongest Man since 2021
One of my most unforgettable moments was traveling to Liberia to obtain my professional strongman card. My friend, Kevin Power, and I were initially there just to secure our cards, but we were unexpectedly placed in a competition against some of Liberia’s top strongman athletes. We accepted the challenge, competed, and won. Representing Nigeria in that moment was a proud and defining experience.
To compete at that level, I need to increase my weight from 115 kg to at least 130 kg. This means increasing my training intensity, consuming six meals daily, and enhancing my supplement regimen. Additionally, I need to improve my deadlift and squat strength significantly. I am preparing for the World Strongman Championship in Dubai this June, and I am confident in my ability to compete against the best in the world.
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