Nigerian Athletes Battle for 2026 Commonwealth Games Spots

World champion Tobi Amusan headlines Nigeria's most competitive national track championships in years as athletes fight for spots at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland.

The three-day trials kicked off Friday at Yaba College of Technology Sports Complex in Lagos, bringing together Olympic medalists, African record holders, and NCAA champions. Over 32 events will determine who represents Nigeria at the summer games.

Amusan, the African record holder in the 100m hurdles, enters as the favorite after a strong season. She recently won in Rabat with a 12.28-second finish and added another title in Taiwan, breaking the meet record with 12.72 seconds.

The men's 100m sprint promises fireworks. Auburn University's Kanyinsola Ajayi shattered Nigeria's 20-year-old record in May, clocking 9.84 seconds to beat Olusoji Fasuba's mark of 9.85. He'll face tough competition from Olympian Enoch Adegoke and several rising stars.

University of Alabama standout Samuel Ogazi leads the 400m field after posting a stunning 43.38 seconds this season. That performance put him atop the world rankings and established him as one of global athletics' brightest young talents.

Shot putter Chukwuebuka Enekwechi arrives in excellent form, fresh off a 21.43m throw in the Czech Republic. His African record of 22.10m remains one of the continent's top marks.

High jumper Temitope Adeshina made history this year by sweeping both NCAA indoor and outdoor titles at Texas Tech. Javelin thrower Chinecherem Nnamdi became the first Nigerian man to win an NCAA javelin championship after throwing a personal best 82.26m.

The Ripple Effect

Beyond the competition, organizers introduced prize money exceeding 3 million naira for outstanding home-based athletes and coaches. The Excellence in Athletics Prize honors the late Ben Aghazu and rewards athletes who train primarily in Nigeria rather than abroad.

Former athletes Gbolahan Fatuga and Kunle Oguneye are adding to the prize pool with special awards for women's 200m and 400m winners. Organizers plan to grow the fund for future championships, supporting athletes who choose to develop their careers at home.

The trials also showcase the growing rivalry between Nigeria-based athletes and competitors training in the U.S. collegiate system. This dynamic creates deeper competition and pushes performance levels higher across the board.

Commonwealth Games veteran Ese Brume will compete in long jump, bringing her collection of gold medals and world championship hardware. These trials give Nigeria's next generation a chance to compete alongside decorated champions.

Three days of world-class competition will determine who earns the honor of representing Nigeria in Glasgow this summer.