… it’s a triumph driven by belief, backroom strength
The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has described Team Nigeria’s outing at the World Relays Championships in Gaborone, Botswana, as a major success, despite the team being dominated by home-based athletes.
This was the verdict of the 2nd Vice President of the AFN, Akuchukwu Aghazu, shortly after arriving in Nigeria from Botswana.
Speaking with the AFN Media Hub, Aghazu said Team Nigeria’s performance was made possible not only by the athletes on the track but also by the administrative and motivational support provided behind the scenes.
“Team Nigeria’s impressive performance at the World Relays Championships in Gaborone is credited not only to the athletes on the track but also to the strong administrative and motivational support behind the scenes,” she said.
Aghazu, popularly known as Aku, was one of the officials who worked closely with the athletes throughout the competition, particularly the female athletes.
She stood behind the team as Nigeria competed against some of the world’s leading relay nations to secure qualification tickets and maintain the country’s reputation in athletics.
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Reflecting on the performance of the athletes, Aghazu expressed confidence in the ability of Nigeria’s home-grown talents to continue delivering strong performances at international competitions.
“I believe the home-grown talents have what it takes to engrave Nigeria’s name in gold,” she stated.
“Yes, we need the overseas-based athletes, but what we have at home are equally good enough to compete with the elite in any part of the world.”
She noted that improved support and regular competitions would help transform athletics development in the country.
“Athletes don’t run sub-10s in the gym or classroom but on the track when they race against each other on a regular basis,” she explained.
According to her, Nigeria’s performance in Botswana once again showed the depth of talent within the country’s athletics system.
Aghazu also praised the National Sports Commission for its support towards the athletics programme.
“The NSC has been pulling the right strings and backing us. I commend them for their support,” she added.
She expressed optimism that the blend of emerging and experienced athletes would help Nigeria record more successes at future global competitions.
“Team Nigeria’s performance in Gaborone has further raised hopes ahead of upcoming global championships, with officials and stakeholders optimistic that the country’s blend of emerging talents and experienced stars can deliver more podium finishes for the nation,” she said.
Aghazu also called on state governments to organise more athletics competitions at the grassroots level to help athletes improve.
“If at least each state of the Federation stages a big meet each year, the home-based athletes will have enough opportunities to improve on their timings and jumps, including throws,” she said.
According to her, organising such competitions would not place too much financial pressure on states and the Federal Capital Territory.
“This will not be too difficult for each of the 36 states and the FCT to achieve,” she explained.
She further urged the private sector to support sports development, saying many corporate organisations are willing to invest in athletics.
“The corporate bodies are willing to put their hands on the plough into sports and fund it well,” Aghazu emphasised.
Team Nigeria secured three qualification tickets to the 2027 World Athletics Championships in Beijing, China, as well as one slot at the maiden edition of the World Ultimate Athletics Championships scheduled for Budapest, Hungary, in September.
