Glasgow 2026: AFN Backs Team Nigeria's Medal Bid as Okowa Joins Athletics Squad

Posted : 23 July 2026

The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has expressed confidence in Team Nigeria's ability to mount a strong medal challenge at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, as preparations enter the final stretch.

AFN Second Vice President, Akuchukwu Aghazu, said the country's 29-member athletics contingent possesses the quality, determination, and unity needed to compete successfully against the best athletes in the Commonwealth.

The squad comprises 16 female and 13 male athletes, combining established international stars with emerging talents expected to make a significant impact in Glasgow.

Among those selected are world record holder Tobi Amusan, Kanyinsola Ajayi, Chukwuebuka Enekwechi, Rosemary Chukwuma, Favour Ashe, Patience George, Ezekiel Nathaniel, Temitope Adeshina, Esther Joseph, and Blessing Ogundiran.

The team also features teenage prospects Jessica Oji and Jami Schlueter, who recently switched their sporting allegiance to Nigeria, a move Aghazu described as a major boost for the country's athletics programme.

"We are heading to Glasgow with one of the strongest athletics teams Nigeria has assembled in recent years. The athletes have shown tremendous commitment in training, and everyone is focused on representing the country with pride," she said.

Aghazu praised Oji and Schlueter for embracing the opportunity to compete for Nigeria, describing them as disciplined, hardworking, and eager to contribute to the nation's success.

"Jessica and Jami have settled in remarkably well. They are extremely dedicated, disciplined, and eager to contribute to Nigeria's success. Their commitment has been outstanding, and we are delighted to have them in the Nigerian family," she added.

She also commended the leadership of the National Sports Commission (NSC), led by Chairman Shehu Dikko and Director-General Bukola Olopade, for creating an enabling environment that has encouraged Nigerian athletes in the diaspora to commit to representing the country.

According to Aghazu, the Federal Government's support through the NSC has enhanced the team's preparations, while the atmosphere in the training camp in Aberdeen has been positive and focused.

"There is a wonderful spirit in camp. The athletes are united, the coaches are working tirelessly, and everyone understands the responsibility of representing over 200 million Nigerians," she said.

Meanwhile, AFN President, Chief Tonobok Okowa, has joined the team in Scotland after concluding official engagements in Egypt and Tunisia.

Okowa, who is also Senior Vice President of the Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) and President of CAA Region II, was honoured by both the Egypt Athletics Federation and Tunisia Athletics in recognition of his contributions to the development of athletics across Africa.

Athletics competition at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games begins on July 27 and will run for six days, with Team Nigeria targeting another memorable outing on the continental and global stage.

The AFN believes the blend of experienced stars and promising young talents has positioned Team Nigeria to compete strongly for medals. With preparations nearing completion and confidence high within the camp, the federation is optimistic about delivering another successful performance in Glasgow.

Glasgow 2026: AFN Backs Team Nigeria's Medal Bid as Okowa Joins Athletics Squad

ADD A COMMENT :

Hot Topics