The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has named 42 Nigerian Athletes to vie for medals at the 4th African U18 Championships and 15th African U20 Championships, which begins this weekend in Ndola, Zambia. There are 23 U18 girls and boys on the list, as well as 19 U20 men and women.
Tima Godbless, Nigeria’s U20 women’s record holder, is leading Nigeria’s fight for podium spots in the U20 category, while Faith Okwose, National Sports Festival 100m and 200m silver medallist, leads the list of 23 U18 athletes named for the Championships.
Ewa Peace, Eyakpoeyan Justina Tiana, Saibu Yetunde Olayinka, Israel Okon Sunday, Monday Ebuka, Francis James, Musa Jimoh, Justin Osigwe, and Abujei Chinedu are among those listed in the U18 category.
Sule Rejoice Adijatu, Oke Opeyemi Deborah, Usenbor Osaretin Joy, Bright Ada Princess, Ajayi Kanyinsola, Adebisi Musbau, Musa Nurain Kola, Unorji Kingsley Emeka, and Caleb Joshua were also named to the U20 squad.
Are These The Best Nigerian Athletes?
According to AFN Technical Director Samuel Onikeku, the federation chose the best Nigerian athletes to represent Nigeria in Ndola and follow in the footsteps of their predecessors who began their careers at the Championships.
“The AFN has selected the best crop of young athletes who will not only be medal contenders in Ndola but will grow to become one of the best in their events,” said Onikeku, a former Nigeria international athlete.
Onikeku noted that the last edition of the combined championships, which took place four years ago in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire, produced players who have gone on to set Nigerian and African records.
The AFN Technical Director is certain that the athletes competing in Ndola are as good as those who competed in Ivory Coast four years ago, and Nigerians should expect the birth of a new generation of superstars.
Rosa Collins, the AFN’s second Vice President and former Nigerian and African triple jump champion and record holder, will lead the delegation.