In an inspiring call to action, Victor Okorie, the Performance Director of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) and a former 400m hurdles silver medallist, has emphasised the bright prospects ahead for Nigerian athletes as they gear up for a packed season leading to the 2026 Enugu National Sports Festival.
With the AFN Board working diligently to finalise next season’s calendar, Okorie is optimistic about a transformative year for Nigerian athletics. “Athletes should prepare for an eventful year,” he stated, noting that the AFN aims to provide ample time for athletes to prepare both mentally and physically.
The upcoming year promises a busy schedule with major events, including the National Sports Festival, Confederation of African Athletics Championships, World Relay Championship, Commonwealth Games, and more. Okorie believes this packed agenda sets the stage for one of the most exciting periods in recent memory for the nation’s track and field athletes.
To further empower athletes, the AFN is pursuing partnerships with top sportswear brands, ensuring that athletes not only excel in their performances but also take pride in their appearance. “The right partnership will provide motivation, comfort, and pride in representing Nigeria,” Okorie explained.
Equally important to Okorie is the vision of sports as a thriving business, advocating for greater corporate investment in athletics. He commended the National Sports Commission (NSC) for its support but urged private and public sectors to step in. “Athletics can be more than medals; it can build brands, create jobs, and inspire communities,” he asserted.
As one of the key organisers for the forthcoming Enugu 2026 National Sports Festival, Okorie expressed excitement about the potential impact of the event. He believes it will offer significant economic opportunities for Enugu, enhancing tourism and fostering inter-state relations. “It’s truly a win-win moment,” he said, optimistic that Enugu’s athletes will compete fiercely across all 36 sporting events, aiming for a top-three finish in the overall medal standings.
Okorie also praised the NSC for its role in nurturing athletics in Nigeria despite ongoing financial challenges. He reiterated the need for additional corporate support to enhance training facilities and talent discovery, which would enable Nigeria to compete more effectively on the global stage.
Reflecting on the essence of athletics, Okorie believes it transcends mere competition, serving as a platform for building connections among individuals and communities. As the countdown to Enugu 2026 begins, he envisions a future where sports will not only elevate athletes but also revive national pride and economic growth.
“Sports can transform lives. If we nurture it right, it will reward us all—athletes, fans, and the nation,” he concluded, embodying a hopeful vision for the future of Nigerian athletics.
