The Nigerian National Sports Commission (NSC) has reiterated its unwavering support for Team Nigeria as they gear up for the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan. The prestigious global sporting event, scheduled to take place from September 13th to 21st, will see Nigeria’s finest athletes compete against the world’s best in various track and field disciplines. The NSC, through its Director-General, Bukola Olopade, has expressed immense confidence in the team’s ability to deliver outstanding performances and bring glory to the nation. Olopade emphasized the commission’s commitment to providing continuous support and encouragement to the athletes throughout the championships. He will be present in Tokyo to offer frontline support, underscoring the NSC’s dedication to the team’s success. The NSC chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, earlier stated the importance of Nigeria excelling in athletics, signifying the high expectations placed on the team.
Team Nigeria, comprising fifteen exceptional athletes, will be spearheaded by two of the country’s most prominent track and field stars: Tobi Amusan, the world record holder in the 100m hurdles, and Ese Brume, the accomplished long jumper. This dynamic duo will be joined by a blend of seasoned veterans and promising young talents, forming a formidable squad ready to compete across various athletic disciplines, including sprints, jumps, throws, and hurdles. The team’s diverse composition reflects Nigeria’s strength across different events and its potential to achieve success in multiple areas. The athletes have undergone rigorous training and preparation, honing their skills and strategies in anticipation of the challenging competition ahead.
The men’s team comprises Kayinsola Ajayi and Israel Sunday Okon in the 100m; Udodi Onwuzurike in the 200m; Samuel Ogazi, Chidi Okezie, and Ezekiel Nathaniel in the 400m and 400m hurdles, respectively; Charles Godfred in the long jump; and Chukwuebuka Enekwechi in the shot put. These athletes represent a mix of experienced competitors and rising stars, each aiming to make their mark on the world stage. Their participation reflects Nigeria’s commitment to developing male athletes across diverse track and field events.
On the women’s side, Rosemary Chukwuma joins Tobi Amusan in the 100m and 100m hurdles; Ese Brume and Prestina Ochonogor compete in the long jump; Obiageri Amaechi and Chioma Onyekwere-Lyons participate in the discus; and Oyesade Olatoye represents Nigeria in the hammer throw. This strong female contingent highlights Nigeria’s growing prominence in women’s athletics and the country’s dedication to fostering female athletic talent. The athletes are prepared to showcase their skills and compete at the highest level, aiming to bring pride to Nigeria.
Nigeria enters the 2025 World Championships with a strong ambition to build on its previous successes, particularly at the 2022 World Championships in Oregon, where Tobi Amusan etched her name in history by setting a new world record of 12.12 seconds in the 100m hurdles en route to winning gold. Ese Brume also contributed significantly to Nigeria’s medal tally in Oregon, securing a silver medal in the women’s long jump. These achievements serve as a powerful source of inspiration for the entire team and fuel their determination to replicate and even surpass these accomplishments in Tokyo. The team understands the weight of expectations and aims to deliver performances that reflect the nation’s sporting aspirations.
The 2025 World Championships in Tokyo represent a crucial opportunity for Team Nigeria to demonstrate its growth and development on the global stage. The athletes’ hard work, dedication, and unwavering support from the NSC provide a solid foundation for success. The team understands the significance of competing at this prestigious event and the chance to inspire future generations of Nigerian athletes. They aim to make their nation proud by showcasing their talent and achieving their personal best performances. As the team embarks on this crucial journey, they carry with them the hopes and aspirations of a nation eager to witness their success. Their performances will undoubtedly contribute to Nigeria’s rich athletic history and inspire future generations of athletes to strive for excellence.
