The Team Nigeria athletics camp is steadily taking shape in Asaba as coaches and officials intensify preparations for the upcoming Commonwealth Games, with early signs pointing to discipline and growing confidence among athletes.
Speaking on the progress so far, head coach Aliyu said the opening weeks were crucial for physical conditioning and team bonding, stressing that the athletes had responded positively to the programme.
“We are building gradually.
The first two weeks are critical for fitness and team bonding, and the athletes have shown discipline and hunger,” Aliyu explained.
The choice of Asaba as the camp base has also been praised, with its favourable weather and modern facilities creating an ideal training environment for elite performance.
According to officials of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, athletes have adapted quickly to camp life, with structured routines focusing on physical readiness, nutrition, recovery and mental resilience.
Beyond track sessions, coaches are placing strong emphasis on holistic development, ensuring athletes are mentally prepared for the demands of international competition.
Aliyu noted that while not all invited athletes have reported to camp, their absence is due to commitments elsewhere rather than lack of commitment to the programme.
“We are expecting more to join the camp after the Niger Delta Games. Some of the athletes called to camp are taking part there, so after the games we will have a full camp,” he said.
Despite operating with an incomplete squad, the atmosphere within the camp has remained upbeat, with athletes showing enthusiasm and focus during training sessions.
The coach also commended the support staff, highlighting the professionalism displayed across all departments involved in the camping exercise.
“The spirit in camp is very high. The quality of accommodation is good, the training is top notch, and the feeding is good. There has been no negative feedback,” Aliyu added.
For younger athletes, the upcoming Commonwealth Games represents a chance to announce themselves on a major international stage, while experienced competitors are eager to improve on previous outings.
Veteran athletes are reportedly motivated by the opportunity to restore Nigeria’s dominance in track and field, mentoring younger teammates while pushing standards higher in camp.
Officials believe the phased camping strategy will allow Team Nigeria to peak at the right time, balancing workload with recovery ahead of the competition.
With four more weeks remaining in the first phase, attention is expected to shift toward sharpening performance levels, tactical refinement and strengthening team cohesion.
As more athletes arrive following the Niger Delta Games, internal competition for places is likely to intensify, further raising performance standards.
The mood in camp remains focused and optimistic, signalling clear intent from Nigeria’s athletics contingent as preparations continue.
With structure, facilities and morale aligned, expectations are high that the Team Nigeria athletics camp will produce a squad capable of competing strongly for medals when the Commonwealth Games begin.
Beyond physical preparation, coaches are also emphasizing psychological readiness, using mental conditioning sessions to help athletes cope with pressure and maintain focus during high-stakes competition.
Sports psychologists are working closely with both seasoned competitors and newcomers to build resilience and enhance confidence.
The camp has also become a platform for talent identification, with younger athletes given opportunities to train alongside veterans and showcase their potential.
This exposure allows coaches to evaluate performance under realistic competitive conditions, ensuring that selections for the Commonwealth Games reflect both current form and long-term potential.
Community engagement has been another highlight, with the team participating in outreach activities around Asaba.
Such interactions foster goodwill, allow athletes to inspire local youths, and strengthen public support for Team Nigeria ahead of the international event.
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