Team Nigeria Athletics Intensifies Commonwealth Games Preparations In Asaba

Team Nigeria Athletics has significantly stepped up its preparations for the upcoming Commonwealth Games, with the first phase of their six-week training camp now in its second week in Asaba. The camp, hosted at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, brings together a mix of seasoned athletes and promising new talent, all engaged in rigorous training sessions.

Solomon Aliyu, head coach of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), expressed satisfaction with the progress. “We don’t want to be distracted. So far, so good. The camp is in three phases, and this is the first phase,” Aliyu stated in a press release from the AFN media committee.

The focus in this second week has shifted from general conditioning to more event-specific drills, with sprinters, jumpers, throwers, and hurdlers intensifying their routines. Morning sessions are dedicated to endurance and strength, while evenings focus on technical refinement and speed training.

Camp officials highlight that this initial six-week programme is designed to build a strong foundation before the team moves into competitive simulations and international exposure. One coach remarked, “The response from the athletes has been encouraging. We are building gradually. The first two weeks are critical for fitness and team bonding, and the athletes have shown discipline and hunger.”

Asaba’s favourable weather and top-tier facilities are also contributing to an ideal training environment. Athletes are concentrating on physical readiness, nutrition, recovery, and mental strength.

Aliyu noted that while some invited athletes are yet to join, their absence is due to commitments at the Niger Delta Games. “We are expecting more to join the camp after the Niger Delta Games… after the NDDC Games we will have a full camp,” he explained.

Despite the current incomplete squad, morale remains high. Aliyu praised the professionalism of both athletes and support staff, confirming that accommodation, training quality, and catering are all excellent.

The Commonwealth Games offer a significant platform for younger athletes, while experienced competitors aim to surpass previous performances and re-establish Nigeria’s dominance in track and field. With high spirits and excellent facilities, the AFN is confident that this phased approach will prepare Team Nigeria for a strong medal challenge.

Key Athletes and Coaches in Asaba:

100/200M:
Chidera Ezeakor

100mh – Women:
Jenet Sunday
Precious Uduvweghre

110mh – Men:
Musa Wisdom Great
Abdulaziz Abdullahi

400M:
Toteebat Jimoh
Ezekiel Asuquo
Emmanuel Ojeli
Samson Nathaniel
Victor Ime
Esther Okon Peter
Emmanuel Salubi (h)

Javelin:
Victoria Kparika
Samuel Kure

High Jump:
Edet Clergy

Long Jump:
Rukewe Nwagbogwu

Shot Put:
Dickson Ugochukwu

Triple Jump:
Olaoluwa Akindunbi

Coaches:
Gabriel Okon – Long Sprint and Relay
Solomon Aliyu – Hurdles
Ken Onuaguluchi – Throws
Kola Adebayo – Vertical Jumps
George Obiano – Horizontal Jumps
Esabunor Mavouh

Chaperone:
Olapade Lawal

Medical Staff:
Derrick Akhafa
Francis Eramu

Secretariat:
Taldang Tanimu