Accra 2026: Onikeku Urges Nigerian Stars To Uphold National Honour

A renowned sports technocrat and respected athletics expert, Mr. Samuel Onikeku, has called upon Nigerian athletes bound for the forthcoming CAA African Championships in Accra, Ghana, to compete with unwavering determination, discipline, and a profound sense of national pride. He stressed the importance of these qualities as they prepare to represent their country on the continental stage.

Speaking to FAKS MEDIA ahead of the championships, Onikeku expressed his confidence in the calibre and potential of the Nigerian delegation. He described the African Championships as a crucial platform for athletes to exhibit their talent, resilience, and commitment to excellence. Nigeria, he noted, has consistently been one of Africa’s athletics powerhouses over the years, and the athletes must seize this opportunity in Ghana to reaffirm the nation’s strong standing among the continent’s elite sporting countries.

He implored the athletes to maintain focus throughout the competition and to give their utmost in every event, highlighting that wearing Nigeria’s green and white colours carries immense responsibility and honour. Onikeku emphasised that beyond securing medals, the athletes must also demonstrate discipline, unity, sportsmanship, and respect for the rules of athletics.

The athletics administrator further counselled the athletes to always compete cleanly, underlining the paramount importance of integrity and fair play in contemporary sport. He stated that projecting a positive image for Nigeria is as vital as achieving podium finishes, adding that clean competition helps preserve the dignity of both the athletes and the nation they represent.

Onikeku believes Nigerian athletes possess the talent and ability to excel on the African stage, provided they remain mentally robust and dedicated to hard work. He also encouraged them to maintain self-belief despite the expected level of competition from other African nations, asserting that thorough preparation, discipline, and self-confidence will be pivotal to success in Accra.

He commended the efforts of coaches, officials, and the Athletics Federation of Nigeria for their continuous support and preparation for the championships, expressing optimism that the team will make Nigerians proud at the competition’s conclusion.

As anticipation builds for the CAA African Championships in Ghana, Onikeku’s message serves as both a source of motivation and a timely reminder of the high expectations placed upon Nigerian athletes whenever they step onto the international stage, carrying the hopes of millions back home.