By Flinster Austin
Published on 2024-03-12 03:14:42
Nigerian athlete Tobi Amusan, the current world record holder in the 100m hurdles, has been selected to represent Team Nigeria in the ongoing 13th African Games in Ghana. The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) released the final list of athletes yesterday, revealing that Amusan will be competing in four events at the Games.
In addition to her signature event, the 100m hurdles, Amusan is also set to participate in the 100m, 200m, and the 4x100m relay. Her goal at the Games is to defend her title in the 100m hurdles, a feat that has only been achieved by one other Nigerian woman in the history of the African Games. Vivian Chukwuemeka won the Shot Put title three times at the African Games held in South Africa in 1999, Nigeria in 2003, and Algeria in 2007.
Amusan first won the African Games high hurdles title in 2015 on her debut, and successfully defended it in 2019 while setting a new Games record of 12.68 seconds. She now aims to win a third consecutive title in the event, a historic achievement that has never been accomplished by any woman before.
Joining Amusan in the women’s 100m, 200m, and 4x100m relay are Blessing Ogundiran, Justina Eyakpobeyan, Abinusawa Moforehan, and Onyebuchi Chisom. In the 100m hurdles event, Amusan will be competing alongside Faith Osamuyi and Stella Ayanleke.
On the men’s side, the 100m, 200m, and 4x100m relay squad includes Consider Ekanem, Itshekiri Usheoritse, Okon Israel, Seye Ogunlewe, Alaba Akintola, Adegoke Enoch, and Adekalu Fakorede. The athletics events are scheduled to begin on March 18.
In addition to Amusan, Nigeria will be represented by other talented athletes such as world silver medalist in the long jump Ese Brume, as well as Ruth Usoro and Pristina Ochonogor in the long jump event. The Nigerian team is poised to showcase their athletic prowess and compete for top honors at the African Games.
As the African Games continue in Ghana, all eyes will be on Tobi Amusan and her fellow Nigerian athletes as they aim to make their mark in the track and field events. With their determination, skill, and dedication, Team Nigeria is ready to shine on the international stage and bring glory to their country.
