The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has fixed August 1 to 3 for the national trials ahead of the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan, Bold Sports reports.
The trials, which will take place at the Yaba College of Technology (Yabatech) in Lagos, are expected to produce the final list of athletes who will represent Nigeria at the global championships scheduled for September 13 to 21 in Tokyo.
Athletes are expected to arrive on July 31, with competition holding across three days, and departure scheduled for August 4.
Among the top stars expected at the trials is world-record holder and 2022 world champion Tobi Amusan, who is aiming to reclaim her title in the women’s 100m hurdles. Long jumper Ese Brume, rising sprint sensation Tima Godbless, and several foreign-based athletes will also compete.
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In the men’s events, shot putter Chukwuebuka Enekwechi, 400m hurdler Nathaniel Ezekiel, and sprinter Udodi Onwuzurike are among those expected to stake their claim for spots on Team Nigeria.
Athletes who have already qualified for the World Championships—either through entry standards or their World Athletics ranking—include Tima Godbless, Rosemary Chukwuma, Kelly Ufodiama, Ella Onojuvwevwo, Temitope Adeshina, Ese Brume, and Favour Ofili.
However, Ofili’s participation at the trials will be closely watched following speculations about a possible switch of allegiance away from Nigeria. Her absence could further fuel concerns over her international future.
Others who have secured qualification are Prestina Ochonogor, Chioma Onyekwere, Obiageri Amaechi, Sade Olatoye, Kanyinsola Ajayi, Israel Okon, Samuel Ogazi, Ezekiel Nathaniel, Chidi Okezie, and Chukwuebuka Enekwechi.
For athletes yet to qualify, the national trials provide a final opportunity to hit the entry standard or improve their world rankings before the qualification window closes.
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