Baskadia

By ETTAH EMMANUEL O

MTN CHAMPS/AFN National Trials at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba, Delta State, are renowned athletes such as Emmanuel Ekanem Consider, Enoch Adegoke, and Patience Okon George. Among the confirmed 89 athletes vying for spots in Nigeria's track and field team for the upcoming African Games are rising stars like Justina Tiana Eyakpobeyan, reigning champ Blessing Ogundiran, Musibau Adebisi, and veteran Sikiru Adeyemi.

The event, organized by Making of Champions and sponsored by MTN in partnership with the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), will see athletes accommodated in Asaba for up to four days, covering the duration of their respective events from Friday, the 16th to Tuesday, the 20th.

Consider, who recently clocked a world-leading time of 10.10 seconds, aims to showcase his talent after his stellar performance at the Dynamic Athletics Meeting 2024 in Lagos. Adegoke, the record-breaking 100m sprinter, seeks to continue his success after making waves in the athletics scene in 2021.

For the women, Eyakpobeyan eyes a strong showing to challenge Ogundiran, who clinched the Nigerian Championships title in the 100m event. Veteran quartermiler Okon George looks to kick off her season with a bang after finishing 2023 with an impressive time. The AFN is yet to announce the selection criteria for the African Games, especially considering the participation of athletes abroad.

Uncertainty lingers regarding the status of elite stars like Tobi Amusan, Ruth Usoro, and Ese Brume, who might also be gearing up for the World Indoor Championships in Glasgow, Scotland. As the anticipation builds and athletes prepare to leave their mark on the track, the stage is set for a thrilling display of talent and determination at the National Trials.