Commonwealth Games Trials: AFN intensifies preparations as athletes converge on Lagos

Posted : 18 June 2026

Lagos is gradually transforming into the hub of Nigerian athletics as athletes, coaches, and officials arrive in large numbers for the forthcoming Commonwealth Games Trials scheduled to hold at the Yaba College of Technology (YabaTech) Sports Complex.

With the crucial selection event drawing closer, preparations have gathered momentum as the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) finalises arrangements for what is expected to be a fiercely contested championship.

Early arrivals from various states have already checked into the city, with contingents from Akwa Ibom and Kwara among the first to report. Several top athletes have also arrived, setting the stage for intense competition as they seek places on Team Nigeria for the next Commonwealth Games.

The AFN leadership is also on ground to supervise preparations. Federation President, Chief Tonobok Okowa, alongside members of the Technical Committee, is expected to monitor the exercise and ensure that all organisational and technical requirements are adequately met.

Organisers have continued to receive and install competition equipment, underscoring their commitment to delivering a seamless and world-class event.

Meanwhile, the National Institute for Sports (NIS) at the National Stadium, Surulere, has been designated as a temporary transit camp for early arrivals, providing accommodation and logistical support ahead of the trials.

Attention will now shift to the official AFN camp, which is scheduled to open on June 19 for qualified athletes. The camp will serve as the final preparation base before competition begins.

The three-day trials will bring together some of Nigeria's finest track and field athletes, all aiming to earn national team selection and the opportunity to represent the country on the Commonwealth stage.

With preparations entering the final phase and anticipation growing across the athletics community, all eyes are now on Lagos as the race for Commonwealth Games places gathers pace.

The high influx of elite athletes and the meticulous setup by the federation underscore the immense significance of this national selection process. As elite competitors refine their forms in transit and official camps, the city stands ready to host a premium sporting showpiece. Ultimately, the successful delivery of these trials is poised to lay a robust foundation for Nigeria's podium ambitions on the global stage.

Commonwealth Games Trials: AFN intensifies preparations as athletes converge on Lagos

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