The Nigerian Athletics Federation has unveiled a 15-athlete squad set to represent the nation at the 2025 World Athletics Championships, scheduled to unfold in Tokyo, Japan, from September 13th to 21st. This contingent, comprised of seven female and eight male athletes, will compete across eleven diverse disciplines, showcasing Nigeria’s prowess in track and field events. Leading the charge is none other than Tobi Amusan, the reigning world record holder and Nigeria’s first-ever world champion in the women’s 100m hurdles. Amusan’s presence injects a potent dose of star power and championship pedigree into the team, raising expectations for a strong showing on the global stage. Having bypassed the recent Diamond League finals in Zurich, Amusan arrives in Tokyo with a singular focus: to recapture her world championship title and solidify her legacy as one of the greatest hurdlers of all time.
Joining Amusan in this ambitious pursuit of athletic excellence is a cadre of accomplished athletes and rising stars. Olympic bronze medalist Ese Brume brings her experience and medal-winning potential to the women’s long jump competition. Nathaniel Ezekiel, a promising prospect in the men’s 400m hurdles, carries the hopes of a nation eager to witness his emergence as a global force. Chukwuebuka Enekwechi, a specialist in the men’s shot put, adds his throwing prowess to the mix. The women’s team further boasts the talents of Rosemary Chukwuma and Prestina Ochonogor in the sprints, while Chioma Onyekwere Lyons leads the charge in the women’s discus.
The championship campaign extends beyond these prominent figures to encompass a diverse range of talents. Obiageri Amaechi and Oyesade Olatoye add depth to the throwing events, participating in the women’s hammer and discus respectively. Kayinsola Ajayi joins the women’s long jump contingent, adding her leaping abilities to the mix. On the men’s side, Israel Okon bolsters the sprinting contingent, while Udodi Onwuzurike adds young blood to the men’s 100m and 200m races. Samuel Ogazi’s presence in the sprints underscores the strength of Nigeria’s speed, while Chidi Okezie and Charles Godfred provide further depth in the men’s 400m. This blend of seasoned veterans and emerging talent creates a formidable team poised to make a significant impact in Tokyo.
The 20th edition of the World Athletics Championships, hosted at the iconic Japan National Stadium in Tokyo, promises to be a spectacle of athleticism and global competition. The stadium, a symbol of Japanese innovation and sporting excellence, provides a fitting backdrop for the gathering of the world’s finest athletes. For the Nigerian contingent, this prestigious venue represents an opportunity to showcase their skills and elevate their nation’s standing on the world stage. The championships will be a crucial test of their training, determination, and ability to perform under pressure. The eyes of the world will be upon them as they strive to achieve personal bests and bring glory to their nation.
The Nigerian team’s participation in eleven disciplines highlights the breadth and depth of the nation’s athletic talent. From the explosive bursts of speed in the 100m and 200m sprints to the strategic maneuvering of the hurdles races, Nigerian athletes will be vying for top honors across a variety of events. The field events, including the long jump, shot put, discus, and hammer throw, will provide further opportunities for Nigerian athletes to demonstrate their strength, technique, and competitive spirit. The team’s diverse representation across multiple disciplines reflects the growing strength of athletics in Nigeria and its potential to become a dominant force in global track and field.
The Tokyo championships hold particular significance for Tobi Amusan, who aims to defend her title and solidify her position as a global icon in the sport. Her remarkable performance in the 2022 championships, where she shattered the world record, catapulted her to international stardom. Now, she faces the challenge of maintaining that level of excellence and fending off challenges from a field of equally determined competitors. The pressure will be immense, but Amusan’s track record suggests she thrives under pressure, making her one of the most compelling athletes to watch in Tokyo. Her performance will undoubtedly be a focal point of the championships and a source of national pride for Nigeria.
Beyond individual achievements, the Nigerian team’s performance in Tokyo will serve as a barometer of the nation’s progress in athletics. The championships will offer a valuable opportunity to assess the effectiveness of training programs, identify areas for improvement, and build momentum for future international competitions. A strong showing in Tokyo could inspire a new generation of Nigerian athletes and further solidify the country’s position as a rising power in global track and field. The success of the team will not only be measured in medals won, but also in the overall progress and development demonstrated by the athletes. The 2025 World Athletics Championships promises to be a pivotal moment for Nigerian athletics, with the potential to shape the future of the sport in the country.
