The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) President, Tonobok Okowa, says he is confident that Team Nigeria will perform strongly at the 2026 Commonwealth Games with early and well-planned preparations.
His optimism follows Nigeria’s modest showing at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, where the country finished 27th overall. Tobi Amusan won silver in the women’s 100m hurdles—Nigeria’s only medal at the event.
Speaking after a stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja, Okowa said the AFN had carefully reviewed its Tokyo performance and was ready to make key improvements ahead of the next global competition.
“The talent and dedication of our athletes are never in doubt,” Okowa said. “With the right support and preparation, we’re confident of a much stronger showing next year.”
Nigeria reached four finals in Tokyo: the men’s 100m, women’s 100m hurdles, men’s 400m hurdles, men’s 200m, and men’s shot put. Ezekiel Nathaniel also broke his own national record in the 400m hurdles, finishing fourth after initially being placed on the podium.
Okowa said the federation learned key lessons from the championships and would focus on improving athlete training, welfare, and logistics. He reaffirmed support for leading athletes such as Amusan, Nathaniel, Udodi Onwuzurike, Israel Okon, and Chukwuebuka Enekwechi.
He also addressed challenges from Tokyo, such as visa delays and kit issues, and assured that measures were being taken to avoid a repeat.
While the Hi-Racer partnership helped during the World Championships, Okowa revealed that the AFN is in talks with major sportswear brands for a long-term sponsorship deal.
Okowa called on the media to keep promoting Nigerian athletes, saying positive stories inspire better performances.
He concluded by thanking AFN board members, sponsors, and stakeholders for their continued support, promising that the federation remains committed to raising Nigeria’s profile in world athletics.
