Preparations for the upcoming Commonwealth Games have gathered pace as Team Nigeria’s athletics squad settles into the second week of its six-week camping programme in Asaba.
The training exercise, staged at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, features a balanced mix of experienced performers and emerging talents, all undergoing demanding sessions aimed at sharpening their readiness for the global event. Early indications from coaches and technical officials suggest the programme is progressing as planned, with athletes demonstrating strong dedication.
Head coach of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, Solomon Aliyu, expressed satisfaction with the early phase of the exercise, stressing that the federation remains intentional about maintaining concentration throughout the build-up.
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 entering its second week, the programme has gradually transitioned from basic conditioning to specialised event training. Sprinters, jumpers, hurdlers and throwers have stepped up their routines, with mornings devoted to endurance and strength development, while evening sessions centre on speed work and technical adjustments.
Officials overseeing the camp explained that the six-week phase is structured to establish a firm base before the athletes move into competitive simulations and gain international exposure ahead of the Games.
The response from the athletes has been encouraging,” a coach noted. “We are building gradually. The first two weeks are critical for fitness and team bonding, and the athletes have shown discipline and hunger.”
Favourable weather conditions in Asaba, combined with the stadium’s modern facilities, have also been highlighted as key factors supporting effective preparation. Beyond physical drills, attention is being paid to nutrition, recovery processes and psychological readiness as athletes adapt fully to camp life.
Aliyu described the ongoing phase as fundamental to shaping a well-rounded preparation strategy. Although several invited athletes are yet to arrive, he clarified that their absence is linked to participation in the Niger Delta Games.
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 NDDC Games, so after the NDDC Games we will have a full camp,” he added.
Despite the incomplete roster, morale within the camp remains high. The coach praised both athletes and support personnel for their professionalism, noting that the environment has been favourable for optimal output.
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 stated.
For younger competitors, the Commonwealth Games offer a platform to make a strong international statement, while veteran athletes are targeting improved performances as Nigeria seeks to reassert its strength in track and field.
With facilities meeting expectations and confidence growing, federation officials believe the phased camping approach will position the team strongly for the challenge ahead. As additional athletes arrive in the coming weeks, the focus will shift toward refining performance levels and strengthening team unity.
Four weeks remain in the opening phase, and expectations are rising that Team Nigeria’s athletics contingent will emerge fitter, sharper and ready to contend for medals when the Games begin. The atmosphere in camp reflects determination and optimism, clear signs that Nigeria’s track and field stars are preparing with serious intent.
