NSC backs Team Nigeria’s medal quest in Tokyo News

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NSC backs Team Nigeria’s medal quest in Tokyo

By Daily Sports Nigeria on September 12, 2025

With less than 24 hours to the 2025 World Athletics Championships scheduled to take place in Tokyo, Japan, the National Sports Commission has thrown its weight behind Team Nigeria athletes, as they prepare to don the country’s flag in the Far East, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

The 15-athlete contingent will be led by former world champion and current record holder in the women’s 100m hurdles, Tobi Amusan, as they get set to compete against other elite athletes across various disciplines.

Director General of the NSC, Bukola Olopade, assured Nigeria’s representatives at the event that the Commission would provide the required backing and support, and he charged the athletes to give their all in a bid to bring pride to the nation.

He said, “The Commission will continue to provide all the support they need and firmly stand behind them as they fly our flag in Tokyo. This is a moment of pride for our nation, and we trust our athletes to compete with determination and secure podium finishes.”

Aside from Amusan, Nigeria’s contingent will include Kayinsola Ajayi, who has had an impressive season in the 100m event. There are spots for Israel Okon in the men’s 100m, Udodi Onwuzurike in the men’s 200m, Samuel Ogazi and Chidi Okezie in the men’s 400m, Ezekiel Nathaniel in the men’s 400m hurdles, Charles Godfred in the men’s long jump, and Chukwuebuka Enekwechi in the men’s shot put.

National champion in the women’s long jump, Prestina Ochonogor, will take part in Tokyo, alongside the experienced Ese Brume, a silver medallist at the 2022 edition in Eugene, Oregon, in the USA. African record holder in the women’s Discus, Chioma Onyekwere-Lyons and Obiageri Amaechi will be involved in the event, while Rosemary Chukwuma and Sade Olatoye are competing for honours in the women’s 100m and hammer throw disciplines, respectively.

The World Athletics Championships will run from September 13 to 21 in Tokyo, with Team Nigeria looking to finish on the medals table, having failed to win anything during their last outing at the 2023 edition held in Budapest, Hungary.

Source Punch Ng

Posted September 12, 2025