Nigeria’s athletics contingent has set its sights on Tokyo as the 2025 World Championships kick off this weekend. The team of 15 athletes and accompanying officials are departing the country today, with expectations running high as the competition begins on Saturday, September 13.
A Lean but Strong Squad
The Athletics Federation of Nigeria confirmed that the team will compete in 11 events, ranging from sprints to field disciplines. Seven women and eight men make up the roster, representing a balanced group of experienced stars and emerging talents.
The events include the men’s and women’s 100m, women’s 100m hurdles, men’s 200m, men’s 400m, men’s 400m hurdles, men’s and women’s long jump, men’s shot put, women’s discus, and women’s hammer throw.
Some athletes already based in the United States have begun arriving in Tokyo, while others left Nigeria today to join them. Sprinter Kayinsola Ajayi confirmed his arrival on Sunday, giving fans an early glimpse of Nigeria’s readiness.
Spotlight on Nigeria’s Stars
Tobi Amusan, the world record holder in the women’s 100m hurdles, headlines the Nigerian squad. Despite a mixed season, she remains a strong medal hopeful and the face of Nigeria’s challenge on the global stage. Amusan made history in 2022 at the World Championships in Oregon, where she ran an astonishing 12.12 seconds in the semifinals to set a world record before storming to gold in 12.06 seconds. Although the latter was not ratified due to wind conditions, her dominance left no doubt about her pedigree.
Joining her is long jumper Ese Brume, the African record holder with a personal best of 7.17m. Tokyo has been a rewarding city for Brume in the past, and athletics fans believe she has the potential to return to the podium if she finds her best form.
Other big names include shot putter Chukwuebuka Enekwechi and 400m hurdles star Ezekiel Nathaniel, both of whom carry Nigeria’s hopes in their respective events.
Rising Talents in the Mix
The roster also features athletes eager to make their mark on the world stage. They include Samuel Ogazi (400m), Prestina Ochonogor (long jump), Chioma Onyekwere-Lyons (discus), Rosemary Chukwuma (100m), Charles Godfred (long jump), Obiageri Amaechi (discus), Oyesade Olatoye (hammer), Israel Okon (100m), and Chidi Okezie (400m).
Their inclusion highlights Nigeria’s growing depth in athletics, particularly in field events where new names continue to emerge. Each athlete represents not just personal ambition but the aspirations of a nation determined to reclaim its place among the world’s best.
Nigeria’s Legacy and Expectations
Nigeria’s track record at the World Championships is defined by moments of brilliance, and Amusan remains the only Nigerian to have clinched a world title. The 28-year-old’s stunning hurdles victory in 2022 was a watershed moment that inspired a new generation of athletes.
As the 2025 edition begins in Tokyo, the focus is not just on medals but on performances that can inspire hope, build momentum for Paris 2028, and further cement Nigeria’s reputation in global athletics.
Looking Ahead
The World Championships offer Nigeria another chance to showcase its athletic potential on a global stage. With seasoned stars, rising prospects, and a spirit of resilience, Team Nigeria is ready to compete with pride and determination. Tokyo has been a city of memories for Nigerian athletes in the past, and this week could mark the start of another remarkable chapter.
