Nigeria is heading into the fourth African Youth Games in Angola with the energy of a nation determined to showcase its next generation of sporting heroes. From December 10 to 20, the country will compete across twelve events with a contingent of 86 athletes, including a carefully selected team of 19 who will fly the flag in track and field.
For a country with a long history of producing speed kings and queens, this squad reflects both promise and personality. The athletes are young, ambitious and aware of the weight of expectations that comes with wearing the green and white on an international stage. Most of them grew up watching Nigerian legends dominate the sprints and jumps, and now they are ready to carve out their own stories.
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In the men’s 100 and 200 metres, Perfect Faye and Emmanuel Akolo form a duo that has impressed coaches with their raw acceleration and consistency. They carry the hopes of Nigeria’s sprint tradition and have shown flashes of brilliance during their buildup to the Games.
The quarter-mile events feature David Udoh and Tosin Esan, both known for their strength in the final stretch of the race. Udoh’s smooth stride and Esan’s fierce competitive edge make them one of the teams to watch.
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Gift Gowon will double in the men’s 100 metres hurdles and long jump, while Anelechi Nkemakolam joins him in the horizontal jumps. Their combination of speed, height and explosiveness strengthens Nigeria’s technical events lineup. In the triple jump, Timothy Ugherapkpoteni is returning with confidence after a strong domestic season.
The throws group is led by Clinton Anyichie and Justus Chimozigrim in the shot put, with Chimozigrim also handling the javelin. These athletes bring power, discipline and an understanding of what it means to perform under pressure.
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On the women’s side, the sprints are loaded with talent. Rosemary Nwakwo, Miracle Ezechukwu, Rebecca Enilolobo, Mariam Jegede and Praise Tejiri Ugoh form a fast and fearless 100-metre squad. They will also feature in the 200 metres, adding depth and competition within the team.
The women’s 400-metre lineup of Bisola Majekodunmi, Jacinta Lawrence, Ifechukwu Nwankwo and Faith Ezechukwu gives Nigeria a mix of speed and endurance. Their relay chemistry will be critical in the 4 X 400 metres relay, where strong baton changes can be the difference between a medal and a near miss.
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The women’s relays remain one of the country’s strongest points. The 4 X 100 metres squad, anchored by Nwakwo and Ugoh, has looked sharp in training and is expected to challenge for a podium finish.
Rounding off the team is Treasure Omosivwe, who will contest the high jump. Her calm composure and steady progress this season have made her a standout name among Nigerian youth jumpers.
As the opening ceremony approaches, the excitement around this group continues to grow. Their journey to Angola is more than a competition. It is a chance to announce themselves as the future of Nigerian athletics. With determination, discipline and the support of millions at home, these young athletes are ready to deliver performances that will inspire the continent.
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Nigeria believes in them. The African Youth Games are their stage, and the lights are about to come on.
