The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has reopened its training camp following a two-day national trial held to select athletes for the upcoming Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) U-18 and U-20 Championships.
The continental competition is scheduled to take place in Abeokuta, Ogun State, from July 16th to 20th, 2025.
Athletes who excelled during the trials resumed camp in Sagamu, Ogun State,, immediately after the conclusion of the selection event at the Gateway International Stadium.
Prior to the trials, the AFN had invited 90 junior athletes to camp in June. The final list of selected athletes is expected to be released soon, with participating nations already confirming their squads for the championships.
Despite the weather challenges posed by rain, approximately 12 events were successfully contested on the final day of the trials.
In the U-20 men’s 400m, Gafar Badmus delivered a standout performance, winning the race in 45.78s. David Akhalu followed with a new personal best of 46.34s, while Ezekiel Eno also set a personal record of 46.42s to finish third—his first time dipping under 47 seconds.
In the U-18 girls’ 200m, Miracle Ezechukwu claimed victory with a time of 24.06s (0.1), ahead of Rosemary Nwankwo, who clocked 24.53s. Mariam Jegede completed the podium in 24.80s. Meanwhile, Lucy Nwankwo impressed in another heat, setting a personal best of 24.15s to finish second overall, followed by Nweke with 24.20s.
One of the breakout stars of the trials was Perfect Faye, who clinched the U-18 boys’ 200m title with a new personal best of 21.68s. Ajibare Ibrahim came second in 21.71s, while Destiny Egbon—winner of the 100m the previous day—placed third in 21.98s.
In the U-20 men’s 200m, John Caleb completed a sprint double after winning the 100m earlier in the trials. He crossed the line first in 21.37s (-1.1), ahead of Joachim Uyovwiyoma (21.88s) and Oluwatobi Malik (22.01s).
The AFN will continue to monitor preparations as Nigeria aims for a strong showing on home soil during the CAA Championships in Abeokuta.
