Edidiong Udo Explains Switch From 800m to 400m After Glasgow Progress

Posted : 29 July 2026

Nigerian athlete Edidiong Udo has revealed that switching from the 800m to the 400m was the best decision of his athletics career after qualifying for the men's 400m semifinals at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

The United States-based sprinter delivered an impressive performance in Heat 1, crossing the finish line in 45.73 seconds to secure first place and automatic qualification for the next round. Barbados' Desean Boyce finished second in 46.55 seconds, while Grenada's Michael Francois came third in 46.62 seconds.

Speaking after the race at Scotstoun Stadium, Udo admitted he initially chose the wrong event before discovering that his strengths were better suited to the one-lap race.

"I was in the wrong event," Udo said. "But I am happy that I realised that on time. It was easy for me to step down from the 800m to the 400m. The only thing I needed to do was to adjust quickly in my timing, and others, and it has worked out for me."

The qualification marks another important milestone in Udo's career, which has not been without challenges. Despite showing excellent form last season, he was forced to end his campaign prematurely after losing both of his parents within a month, delaying his international breakthrough.

His performance in Glasgow means Nigeria will have two athletes in the men's 400m semifinals, with Samuel Ogazi also progressing after a strong showing in his opening heat. The duo will now aim to secure places in the final and challenge for medals.

Team Nigeria also recorded encouraging results in the women's 400m. Esther Elo Joseph booked her place in the semifinals after finishing third in her heat with a time of 52.82 seconds, while experienced runner Patience Okon-George advanced after placing fourth in 53.27 seconds. Together with Ella Onojuvwevwo, Nigeria will have three representatives in the women's semifinals.

There was further success for Team Nigeria in the swimming competition. Abduljabar Adama and Colins Ebingha both progressed to the men's 50m butterfly semifinals after posting times of 23.99 seconds and 24.01 seconds respectively.

Nigeria's strong performances across athletics and swimming provided another positive day for the delegation as the country's athletes continued their pursuit of medals at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games.

Edidiong Udo Explains Switch From 800m to 400m After Glasgow Progress

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