By Kabiru Abdulrauf
With the countdown to the 2025 World Athletics Championships underway, Team Nigeria is already making waves as seven athletes have booked their spots in eight major events for the prestigious global tournament slated for September 13–21 in Tokyo, Japan.
Returning to Tokyo for the first time since 1991, the 20th edition of the championships promises fierce competition from over 2,000 elite athletes representing nearly 200 countries. For Nigeria, it’s a shot at redemption following medal droughts in Budapest 2023 and the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Tobi Amusan: The Queen Returns
Leading the charge is world record holder Tobi Amusan, who secured her place in the women’s 100m hurdles after a blistering 12.49s finish at the Paris Olympics. Aiming to reclaim the crown she won in Oregon 2022, Amusan remains Nigeria’s top medal hope.
Favour Ofili: Out to Prove a Point
Sprinter Favour Ofili qualified in the 200 metres with a time of 22.05s, easily surpassing the standard. After missing the 100m event at the Olympics due to administrative issues, Ofili is focused on making a strong statement in Tokyo.
Ezekiel Nathaniel: The Double Threat
A rising star, Ezekiel Nathaniel punched his ticket in both the 400m hurdles and the 400m flat, showcasing incredible versatility. His qualification times of 48.38s and 44.74s, respectively, mark him as a standout talent.
Samuel Ogazi and Ella Onojuvwevwo: Nigeria’s 400m Hopefuls
Samuel Ogazi and Ella Onojuvwevwo will represent Nigeria in the men’s and women’s 400 metres. Ogazi ran a stunning 44.41s, while Onojuvwevwo posted an impressive 50.59s, both setting the stage for podium contention.
Young Sprinters on the Rise
At just 20, Tima Godbless and Kayinsola Ajayi are injecting fresh energy into Nigeria’s sprinting prospects. Godbless clocked 22.55s in the 200m, while Ajayi lit up the track with a 9.96s finish in the 100m—currently the second-fastest time in the world in 2025.
Relay Teams Eyeing Final Spots
While Nigeria’s relay teams have yet to qualify, hopes are high as they gear up for the World Athletics Relays in Guangzhou (May 10–11). Their performance there—or rankings at the close of the qualification period—will determine who joins the individual stars in Tokyo.
A Shot at Glory With a dynamic mix of seasoned athletes and emerging stars, Nigeria is poised for a compelling return to the global stage. All eyes will be on Tokyo as these seven trailblazers look to restore national pride and put Nigeria back on the medal table.
