The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has unveiled its squad for the 2026 African Region 2 Athletics Championships in Senegal, naming a blend of the country’s most promising U-18 and U-20 athletes to represent Nigeria at the regional showpiece, Trybal News reports.
The championship will provide a major platform for the next generation of Nigerian track and field stars to test themselves against some of the region’s finest young talents, with medals and valuable international experience up for grabs.
Leading Nigeria’s U-18 girl’s contingent are Chigozie Rosemary Nwankwo and Tejiri Ugoh Praise, who will contest the 100m, 200m, and relay events. Jecinta Andrews and Faith Ezechukwu have been selected for the 400m and relay, while Mary Chioma Edeh will compete in the 800m, 400m hurdles, and relay.
In the boy’s U-18 category, Bright Gift will feature in the 100m, 200m, and relay events. Mumuni Abdul Mohammed and David Udoh Dominion are set to compete in the 400m and relay, while Success Okereke will fly Nigeria’s flag in both the Shot Put and Discus Throw.
The U-20 squad also boasts exciting prospects. Miracle Oluebube Ezechukwu and Lucy Chiamaka Nwankwo will line up in the 100m, 200m, and relay events, while Tejiri Godwin has been named for the 100m and 200m. Gang James will represent Nigeria in the 1,500m and 5,000m races, with Emmanuel Shakamomodu Audu selected for the Shot Put and Discus Throw.
The delegation will be supported by an experienced backroom team comprising Olu Sule, Abdulhakeem Idris, Kate Areguamen, team physiotherapist Ruth Fabian Nkoteto, and team secretary Taldang Tanimu.
Nigeria’s contingent is scheduled to depart for Senegal on July 2 or 3 as final preparations gather pace ahead of the championships.
With a squad packed with emerging talent across the track and field disciplines, the AFN will be confident its young athletes can challenge for podium finishes while continuing Nigeria’s proud tradition of producing world-class athletics stars.
