The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has highlighted the growing impact of home-based athletes in the country’s recent athletics successes, describing them as the foundation of Nigeria’s future in the sport.
Over the past year, local athletes have played a major role in Nigeria’s resurgence on the continental and global stage, contributing significantly to the country’s qualification for six relay events at the World Athletics Relays Championships in Botswana and helping secure three relay spots for the 2027 World Athletics Championships in China.
Nigeria also made history by becoming the first African nation to qualify for the Mixed 4x100m Relay at the inaugural World Athletics Ultimate Championship scheduled for Budapest, Hungary, in September.
Speaking on the progress recorded, AFN 2nd Vice President Aku Aghazu said the federation remains committed to creating opportunities for athletes training within Nigeria.
“The true strength of any athletics system is not measured by its stars abroad but by the opportunities made available to athletes training in Nigeria.
“Home-based athletes represent the foundation of Nigeria’s athletics future and their development remains a strategic priority for this current board of the AFN.”
Aghazu noted that the federation has introduced initiatives aimed at keeping athletes active throughout the year through competitions, training camps and talent development programmes.
She commended the National Sports Commission (NSC) for its support, particularly in facilitating athlete camps and international exposure opportunities.
“The National Sports Commission under the leadership of Mallam Shehu Dikko and Hon. Bukola Olopade remains a trusted and welcome partner.”
According to her, the recent camping programme in Asaba contributed significantly to the performances of Nigerian athletes at the World Relays in Botswana and the African Championships in Accra, Ghana.
Aghazu revealed that athletes such as Chidera Ezeakor, Tejiri Godwin, Miracle Ezechukwu, Maria Thompson, Rosemary Nwankwo, Nathaniel Samson, Sikiru Adeyemi, Asuquo Ezekiel, Esther Okon and Toheebat Jimoh have benefited from the federation’s development initiatives.
She also disclosed that, for the first time in many years, prize money will be introduced at the National Trials specifically for outstanding home-based athletes and coaches.
“The future of Nigerian athletics will be built on the tracks, fields, schools and communities across Nigeria where talented young athletes are given the opportunity to dream, develop and succeed.”
The AFN reiterated its commitment to strengthening grassroots development, expanding athlete support programmes and working with stakeholders to ensure a sustainable future for Nigerian athletics.
