RismadarVoice Reporters
May 8, 2026
Officials of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria have expressed confidence that Team Nigeria will not only use the forthcoming Confederation of African Athletics Senior Championships in Accra, Ghana, as a platform to groom emerging talents, but also as an opportunity to assert dominance on the continent.
The championships are scheduled to begin on May 12 in the Ghanaian capital, with Nigeria expected to parade a youthful but competitive squad comprising 25 female and 20 male athletes.
Speaking ahead of the team’s departure, AFN Technical Director, Gabriel Okon, said the federation’s objective is to emerge as the overall winners while preparing athletes for bigger international competitions, including the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Scotland.
“Our aim is not just exposing our young team but to win overall,” Okon said before the team’s early morning training session on Friday.
“Also, we want our athletes to set the tone with good performances for the Commonwealth Games, and most importantly our men and women 4x400m relay teams, who are yet to qualify for the World Championships, have another chance to do so in Accra,” he added.
Leading Nigeria’s contingent is reigning sprint hurdles star Tobi Amusan, who will be aiming for a fourth continental title in the women’s 100 metres hurdles event.
Also expected to make a strong impact is Chukwuebuka Enekwechi, who will compete in the men’s shot put event in pursuit of another African title.
The female team features notable athletes such as Rosemary Chukwuma, Patience Okon George, Ruth Usoro and Oyesade Olatoye.
On the men’s side, Nigeria will rely on experienced names including Favour Ashe, Enoch Adegoke and Samson Nathaniel to challenge for medals across track and field events.
The Nigerian contingent is expected to arrive in Accra over the weekend ahead of the start of the continental showpiece.
Sports analysts believe the championships will provide an important assessment of Nigeria’s preparedness for upcoming global competitions while also offering younger athletes valuable international exposure.
