By Flinster Austin
Published on 2024-03-08 03:43:41
The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) is set to unveil its final list of athletes representing the nation at the 13th African Games in Ghana. AFN Technical Director, Samuel Onikeku, revealed this during a media chat with journalists yesterday, promising to release the names of both foreign-based and home-based athletes today.
It has been reported that the list includes 18 foreign-based athletes, with notable names such as Tobi Amusan, the World Record holder in the women’s 100m hurdles, and Ese Brume, the world silver medalist in the long jump. These athletes, along with others, are expected to lead the charge for Nigeria in the upcoming games.
While the home-based athletes will depart for Ghana on March 11, the foreign-based athletes will join them at the camp in Ghana. The athletics events are scheduled to commence on March 18, with high expectations for Team Nigeria’s performance.
In events such as women’s 100m hurdles and long jump, Nigeria boasts strong contenders, with athletes like Tobi Amusan and Ese Brume expected to shine. The women’s Shot-put, Discus, and hammer events also hold promise for Team Nigeria, along with a strong presence in men’s and women’s Javelin.
On the track, Nigeria is hopeful for success in the relays, with Favour Ofili among those expected to deliver a medal in the women’s 200m. Consider Ekanem, a home-based sprinter, is also anticipated to make an impact in the 100m and 200m events, facing tough competition from other African sprinters.
Another hopeful for a medal is home-based women’s sprinter Olayinka Olajide, who impressed with her performance at the National Athletics Trials last month. She is expected to team up with the foreign-based stars in the 4x100m women’s relay event, aiming for a gold medal for Nigeria.
With a total of 50 athletes, athletics has the largest representation in Team Nigeria’s contingent to the African Games, which officially kicks off today and runs until March 23. The nation’s hopes are high as these athletes prepare to showcase their talent and compete for glory on the African stage.
