Preparations for the 2026 Commonwealth Games have gathered momentum as 32 Nigerian athletes have commenced a six-week camping programme in Asaba, Delta State.
The contingent, made up of 16 male and 16 female athletes, arrived at the camp on Saturday for the first phase of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria’s (AFN) build-up plan ahead of the Games scheduled for Glasgow. The athletes will compete across various track and field events, including sprints, relays, jumps and throws.
According to the federation, the camping exercise is aimed at sharpening fitness levels, improving technical execution and strengthening team chemistry as Nigeria intensifies its quest for a strong outing on the international stage.
The programme is being overseen by a six-man technical crew led by AFN Head Coach Solomon Aliyu, who will supervise training sessions and conduct performance assessments throughout the period. Specialist coaches handling sprints, relays, hurdles and jumps are also part of the setup.
AFN Technical Director Gabriel Okon is heading the delegation and will coordinate the technical structure, athlete monitoring and ensure compliance with federation standards during the exercise.
AFN President, Chief Tonobok Okowa, expressed confidence that the six-week camp would help identify athletes in peak condition while laying a solid foundation for the next phases of preparation.
The programme will help us identify athletes in top form and build a strong base for subsequent preparations as we target an impressive performance at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow,” Okowa said.
He added that the federation remains optimistic the Asaba camp will enhance the athletes’ competitive edge and position Team Nigeria for podium success.
Notable athletes in camp include Enoch Adegoke, Patient Okon George, Samson Nathaniel, Jenet Sunday, Precious Uduvweghre and Treasure Omosinoe, among others, covering events such as the 100m and 200m, hurdles, 400m, high jump, long jump, javelin and shot put.
The camping exercise marks a crucial step in Nigeria’s athletics preparations as the country seeks to assemble a formidable squad capable of delivering strong results in Glasgow.
