The 2025 National Trials, a crucial stepping stone for Nigerian athletes aiming to compete in the upcoming World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, is set to witness a surge in competition with the arrival of a cohort of foreign-based athletes. These athletes, including Olympians, national champions, and rising stars, have converged in Lagos, bringing with them a wealth of experience and a fierce determination to secure their spots on the national team. Their presence promises to elevate the level of competition and inject a renewed sense of excitement into the event, scheduled to commence on Friday at the Yabatech Sports Complex.
Among the notable arrivals is Kanyinsola Ajayi, a 20-year-old sprinter who has been making waves in the international athletics scene. Fresh from a remarkable 2024 season, which saw him clinch the national 100m title and reach the semi-finals of the 100m at the Paris Olympics, Ajayi arrives in Lagos with a string of impressive performances under his belt. His consistent sub-10-second runs in 2025, culminating in a personal best of 9.92 seconds at the NCAA DI Championships, position him as a strong contender for the national title. His participation adds a layer of anticipation to the men’s 100m event, setting the stage for a thrilling showdown against other top contenders.
Adding to the competitive fire is Ramat Jimoh, a promising middle-distance runner who has been making her mark on the US collegiate circuit. The 2022 national 800m champion has consistently displayed her prowess in recent months, making her a formidable force to be reckoned with in her quest to reclaim her national crown. Adaobi Tabugbo, a specialist in the 100m hurdles, also returns to Nigeria in top form, aiming to challenge world record holder Tobi Amusan for the national title. Tabugbo’s recent performances, including a wind-assisted 12.93s run at the Ed Murphey Classic and dominant displays at the PVA High Performance Meet, underscore her readiness to compete at the highest level.
The arrival of seasoned sprinters Seye Ogunlewe and Adekalu Fakorede further strengthens the field. Ogunlewe, a former national champion and All-Africa Games finalist, brings a wealth of experience to the competition, while Fakorede, known for his contribution to Nigeria’s 4x100m relay victory at the 2021 National Trials, adds depth to the sprint events. Their presence is particularly vital for the formation of Nigeria’s relay teams, which are yet to qualify for the Tokyo World Championships. The trials offer a crucial opportunity for the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) to assess and finalize the composition of its relay squads before the qualification window closes on August 24.
The confirmation of the Yabatech Sports Complex as the venue for the trials, following initial uncertainties regarding the suitability of the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta, has alleviated concerns about athlete participation. This resolution, coupled with the arrival of high-profile athletes, paves the way for a high-quality competition that will serve as a crucial selection platform for the World Championships. The three-day event, showcasing over 40 track and field disciplines, promises a spectacle of athleticism and a fierce battle for national pride and international representation.
The 2025 National Trials represents more than just a competition; it’s a critical juncture for Nigerian athletics. The convergence of home-grown talent honed on foreign tracks with local athletes provides a unique platform to gauge the nation’s athletic prowess. This blend of experience and ambition underpins the significance of the trials, serving as a springboard for athletes aiming to represent Nigeria on the global stage and contribute to the country’s legacy in the sporting arena. The trials will not only determine individual champions but also shape the future of Nigerian athletics on the international stage.
