Okowa targets 2026 Commonwealth Games podium finish News

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Okowa targets 2026 Commonwealth Games podium finish

By Daily Sports Nigeria on October 7, 2025

President of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, Tonobok Okowa, has expressed optimism that with early and strategic preparations, Team Nigeria will deliver an impressive performance at the 2026 Commonwealth Games, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

His assurance comes in the wake of the country’s modest outing at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo.

Okowa said the federation had reviewed its performance at the global event and was determined to ensure that Nigerian athletes achieve podium finishes when they compete in the next Commonwealth Games.

Speaking after a strategic stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja, Okowa said the federation, in partnership with sponsors and the National Sports Commission, would intensify support for athletes in the areas of training, welfare, and logistics.

“The talent and dedication of our athletes are never in doubt. With the right support and preparation, we are confident of a stronger showing next year,” Okowa said.

He added, “We commend our athletes for giving Nigeria a positive image in Tokyo.

“The country reached four finals, the men’s 100m, women’s 100m hurdles, men’s 400m hurdles, men’s 200m, and the men’s shot put, and capped it all with a silver medal. For us in the AFN, it was a huge achievement.”

Nigeria finished 27th on the medal table in Tokyo, with Tobi Amusan winning silver in the women’s 100m hurdles to secure the country’s only medal.

Ezekiel Nathaniel broke his own national record in the men’s 400m hurdles, finishing fourth in a race that initially placed him on the podium following a disqualification before the result was overturned.

Okowa said lessons from the championships would guide the federation’s approach going forward, particularly in providing athletes with the tools needed to perform at their peak.

He added that the AFN was working to fulfil all promises made to athletes ahead of the Commonwealth Games and expressed confidence in the abilities of Nigeria’s top performers, including Amusan, Nathaniel, Udodi Onwuzurike, Israel Okon, and Chukwuebuka Enekwechi.

The AFN president also said that the federation would take swift action to resolve challenges that affected the Tokyo campaign, including issues with visas and competition kits.

He revealed that while the partnership with Hi-Racer served as temporary support during the world championships, discussions are ongoing with established sportswear manufacturers to secure long-term sponsorship.

Okowa further appealed to the media to sustain its role in highlighting Nigerian athletes’ achievements, noting that positive coverage could serve as vital motivation for the team ahead of major competitions.

He concluded by thanking AFN board members, sponsors, and the wider athletics community for their continued backing, assuring them that the federation remained committed to elevating Nigeria’s status in global athletics.

Source Punch Ng

Posted October 7, 2025