Ogazi begins professional journey after record-breaking NCAA reign

Posted : 26 June 2026

Nigeria's sprint sensation, Samuel Ogazi, has officially launched the next phase of his athletics career after announcing his decision to turn professional following an extraordinary and record-breaking stint at the University of Alabama.

The 20-year-old quarter-miler brings to an end one of the most decorated collegiate careers in NCAA history, opting to forgo his remaining eligibility after three outstanding seasons that transformed him into one of the world's premier 400m runners.

Ogazi exits the collegiate circuit on the back of a sensational 2026 campaign that firmly established him among the all-time greats in the event.

He stormed to victory at the NCAA Outdoor Championships in a remarkable 43.38 seconds, setting a new NCAA record while becoming the fourth-fastest man ever over 400 metres.

Earlier in the season, he claimed the NCAA Indoor 400m title in an African indoor record of 44.57 seconds before completing a clean sweep of the SEC indoor and outdoor 400m titles, successfully defending his outdoor crown from 2025.

His collegiate achievements also include consecutive NCAA Outdoor 400m titles in 2025 and 2026 after finishing runner-up in 2024.

During his time in the United States, Ogazi repeatedly rewrote Nigeria's national record, lowering it from 44.02 seconds to 43.95, then 43.82, before producing his historic 43.38-second performance.

He also leaves the University of Alabama as its fastest-ever 400m runner.

Reacting to the announcement, Athletics Station described Ogazi's decision as a well-earned progression after conquering the collegiate ranks.

"We are absolutely delighted with Samuel Ogazi's decision to turn professional. He has conquered the collegiate ranks and leaves as arguably the greatest 400m athlete in NCAA history.

"There is little left for him to prove at that level, and this is the natural next step in his journey," the organisation said.

Athletics Station praised the Nigerian star's rapid rise, describing his achievements as evidence of his dedication, resilience, and relentless pursuit of excellence.

"Samuel has shown the world that Nigerian athletes can compete with and outperform the very best.

"His progression from breaking the national record to becoming the fourth-fastest man in history has been phenomenal.

"We are confident that with the right professional guidance, he will become a global force and a consistent medal contender on the international stage."

The organisation also called on Nigerians, corporate sponsors, and the athletics community to support the young athlete as he embarks on his professional career.

"This is a proud moment for Nigerian athletics. Samuel Ogazi represents the future of the sport in our country. As he embarks on this new chapter, he deserves the full support of the athletics community, sponsors, and fans. We have every reason to believe that even greater achievements lie ahead."

With his collegiate career now complete, Ogazi is set to test himself against the world's elite on the professional circuit, carrying the hopes of Nigerian athletics into what promises to be an exciting new era.

His transition to the professional ranks marks the beginning of a promising new chapter, with expectations high that he will continue to build on his remarkable achievements. Nigerian athletics will be watching closely as Ogazi aims to establish himself among the world's elite on the international stage.

Ogazi begins professional journey after record-breaking NCAA reign

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