AFN Launches Ambitious Golden League With Over 400 Athletes

The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has launched its first-ever Golden League series, attracting over 412 athletes to Benin City.

The two-day competition, taking place on March 2nd and 3rd at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, is officially recognised on the World Athletics calendar.

This event signals a new strategic direction for the federation, particularly under the guidance of its Technical Committee, led by Technical Director Gabriel Okon. Athletes are competing across 28 men’s and women’s events in what is anticipated to be an exciting display of talent. Those currently in training camps in Asaba will use this meet to assess their progress.

The competition commenced at 8:00 a.m. on Monday, March 2nd, with the women’s 5,000m final.

The Golden League is structured into three distinct tiers: Premium, Classics, and Promotional. This tiered approach aims to recognise outstanding performance while simultaneously expanding Nigeria’s pool of athletic talent.

Cash prizes are on offer for winners of the four Premium events, which include the highly anticipated men’s and women’s 100m and 400m races. Incentives will also be awarded in eight Classics events, such as the women’s 100m hurdles, men’s 110m hurdles, and men’s triple jump. The Promotional category is designed to encourage wider participation and develop emerging athletes, highlighting the AFN’s renewed commitment to athlete progression.

AFN Technical Director Gabriel Okon described the league as a crucial platform for providing Nigerian athletes with consistent year-round competition, stressing its importance for achieving international success. He also praised AFN President Chief Tonobok Okowa for his support of the initiative and for approving the financial rewards intended to motivate top performers.