AFN Says Athletes Must Compete in Trials for Commonwealth Games

The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has made it clear 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 June 20 to 22 at the Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) Sports Complex. Athletes will compete for spots on Team Nigeria ahead of the Games.

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

The AFN emphasized that all athletes hoping to join the national team must take part in these trials. This makes the competition the main selection event for Glasgow 2026.

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

The federation explained that this benchmark was put in place to ensure that only top-performing athletes compete in the sprint events. At the same time, this keeps participation open in other events.

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

The trials are likely to draw many of Nigeria’s top track and field stars, along with new talent eager to earn a spot on the national team. As one of Africa’s strong athletics nations, Nigeria will see tough competition for the few spots available for the Glasgow Games.

AFN President Tonobok Okowa urged athletics stakeholders and fans to support the athletes during the trials. He described these events as an important milestone in Nigeria’s preparation for the Commonwealth Games.

Mr. Okowa also thanked the National Sports Commission (NSC) for its support of the federation. He noted that the commission's help has boosted efforts to develop athletics and improve the performance of elite athletes.

As the countdown to Glasgow 2026 speeds up, all eyes are now on Lagos. Nigeria’s track and field athletes will aim to turn their years of hard work into qualification for the Commonwealth Games and the chance to represent Nigeria on a big stage.