Nigeria’s Athletics has ramped up preparations ahead of the upcoming Commonwealth Games, bringing together a blend of experienced campaigners and emerging talents.
The squad has been undergoing intensive training sessions at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, with coaches already noting promising progress.
Head coach of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, Solomon Aliyu, expressed satisfaction with the first phase of preparations in Asaba.
“We don’t want to be distracted. So far, so good. The camp is in three phases and this is the first phase of the camp,” Aliyu said.
Now in the second week of this initial phase, athletes have shifted focus from general conditioning to event-specific drills.
Sprinters, jumpers, throwers, and hurdlers are intensifying routines, with mornings devoted to endurance and strength, while evenings focus on technical refinement and speed work.
Camp officials explained that the six-week programme is designed to establish a solid foundation before moving into competitive simulations and international exposure.
“The response from the athletes has been encouraging,” a coach remarked. “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 climate and world-class facilities have been key in providing the right environment for preparation.
Athletes have settled into camp life, with attention given to not only physical conditioning but also nutrition, recovery, and mental strength.
Aliyu emphasized that the current phase is laying the groundwork for a comprehensive and competitive preparation programme. While some invited athletes have yet to join, their absence is due to national commitments.
“We are expecting more to join the camp after the Niger Delta Games. Some of the athletes called to camp are taking part in the Niger Delta Games, so after the NDDC Games we will have a full camp,” he added.
Despite the incomplete squad, the atmosphere within camp remains upbeat. Aliyu commended both athletes and support staff for their professionalism, noting that conditions have been optimal for performance.
“The spirit in camp is very high. The quality of accommodation is good and the quality of training is top notch. The feeding is good, no negative feedback,” he said.
For younger athletes, the Commonwealth Games represent a chance to make their mark, while seasoned competitors aim to improve on past performances and reassert Nigeria’s dominance in track and field.
With morale high and facilities meeting expectations, the AFN is confident that the phased training strategy will fine-tune athletes ahead of the Games.
As additional competitors join after the Niger Delta Games, focus will shift to sharpening performance and strengthening team cohesion, aiming for a strong Commonwealth Games outing.
With four weeks left in the first phase, expectations remain high that Team Nigeria Athletics will enter the Games sharper, stronger, and fully prepared to compete for medals.
The current mood in camp is focused and optimistic, a clear sign that Nigeria’s track and field contingent is ready for action.
