AFN Makes Trials Mandatory for Athletes Aiming for Commonwealth Games

The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has said that all athletes wanting to represent Nigeria at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, must compete in the national trials. These trials will take place later this month in Lagos.

The trials are set for 20 to 22 June at the Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) Sports Complex. Athletes will compete for spots on Team Nigeria ahead of the Games.

Maxwell Kumoye, the chairman of the AFN Media Committee, shared this in a statement on Tuesday. He said the trials are a key part of Nigeria’s preparations for the Commonwealth Games.

The AFN made it clear that all athletes who want to join the national team must participate in the trials. This makes the competition the main selection event for Glasgow 2026.

The three-day event will feature 32 track and field events for both men and women. However, only athletes who meet the qualifying standards set by the federation can compete in the men’s and women’s 100m, 200m, and 400m events. All other events will be open to eligible competitors.

The federation said this rule is to ensure that only top-performing athletes take part in the sprint events. They want to keep the door open for many athletes in other events.

Athletes are expected to arrive in Lagos on 19 June and will leave on 23 June. To help the athletes, the AFN announced that accommodation will be provided for those who meet the required standards during the qualification period. A list of these qualified athletes will be released soon.

Many of Nigeria’s top track and field stars are likely to attend the trials, along with new talents eager to secure a spot on the national team. Nigeria, known for its strong athletics, is expected to face tough competition for the few available slots for the Glasgow Games.

AFN President Tonobok Okowa urged athletics stakeholders and fans to support the athletes during the trials. He called the event an important milestone as Nigeria prepares for the Commonwealth Games.

Mr Okowa also praised the National Sports Commission (NSC) for their ongoing support of the federation. He noted that the NSC’s help has been vital in developing athletics and improving the performance of elite athletes.

With the countdown to Glasgow 2026 speeding up, all eyes are on Lagos. Nigeria’s track and field athletes are ready to turn their years of hard work into Commonwealth Games qualification and the chance to represent the country on a big stage.