Nigeria’s biggest athletics stars, both homegrown and foreign-based, are converging on Lagos for the 2025 National Athletics Trials, with Olympic semi-finalist Kanyinsola Ajayi, NCAA sensation Ramat Jimoh, and world record holder Tobi Amusan leading the charge.
Set to kick off on Friday, August 1 at the Yabatech Sports Complex, the trials mark the final domestic audition for the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, injecting urgency and excitement into a high-stakes weekend.
International Firepower Reignites Local Buzz
After a blockbuster 2024 season, Ajayi returns as Nigeria’s sprint headline act. The 20-year-old, who reached the 100m semi-finals at the Paris Olympics and claimed 4x100m silver at the African Championships, has clocked four sub-10s this year,including a personal best of 9.92s (+1.6) at the NCAA Championships. His arrival signals a serious push for global dominance.
Meanwhile, Ramat Jimoh, the 2022 national 800m champion, is back to reclaim her throne after a strong run in the U.S. college circuit.
Her 2:03.45 season-best and impressive 4x400m anchor leg have reignited hopes of a podium return.
Joining them is Adaobi Tabugbo, one of the year’s breakout hurdlers. Fresh off wind-aided 12.93s and a sweep of the hurdles events in the U.S., the 24-year-old looks set to challenge Tobi Amusan in what promises to be a thrilling duel in the women’s 100m hurdles.
Veteran Flair Returns to the Track
Adding a dose of experience to the trials are veterans Seye Ogunlewe and Adekalu Fakorede.
Ogunlewe, a former national champion and 2015 All-Africa Games finalist, returns at 33 with valuable leadership and speed.
Fakorede, remembered for anchoring Nigeria to 4x100m gold at the 2021 trials, is back to push for relay spots as the clock ticks toward Tokyo.
Relays on the Brink
With the relay qualification window closing on August 24, Nigeria’s men’s and women’s teams are still chasing the clock.
These trials could be one of the last realistic chances to secure qualifying times—unless the country hosts international opposition or gets slots at key overseas meets.
Venue Uncertainty Resolved, Focus Returns
A late shake-up had threatened to derail the event when Abeokuta’s MKO Abiola Stadium was deemed unfit by World Athletics.
Athletes like 400m hopeful Samuel Ogazi were left in limbo. But the AFN’s swift confirmation of Yabatech as host has steadied nerves, allowing athletes to resume focused preparation on familiar turf.
Friday Showdowns: Titles, Tickets, and Tokyo Dreams
The three-day event will feature over 40 events, but all eyes will be on the Friday night sprints.
Amusan, already qualified for Tokyo, is tipped to defend her title, while Ajayi faces an emerging group of young sprinters aiming for a major upset.
For many, it’s a battle for national bragging rights. But for Nigeria’s relay ambitions and Olympic aspirations, it’s much more: a final lifeline.
One thing is certain: Lagos is primed for a spectacle, and Nigeria’s stars are ready to shine.
