Nigeria's Athletes Must Compete in Trials for Commonwealth Games

The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has declared that every athlete wanting to represent Nigeria at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, must compete in the national trials. These trials are set for later this month in Lagos.

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

Maxwell Kumoye, the chairman of the AFN Media Committee, released a statement on Tuesday. He mentioned that the trials are an important part of Nigeria's preparation for the Commonwealth Games.

The AFN made it clear that all athletes hoping to make the national team must participate in the trials. This makes the competition the main selection process for Glasgow 2026.

During the three-day championship, there will be 32 track and field events for both men and women.

But for the men’s and women’s 100m, 200m, and 400m races, only athletes who meet the qualifying standards set by the federation can compete. All other events will be open to eligible athletes.

The federation explained that this rule is to ensure that only the best athletes compete in the sprint events while allowing many to participate in other events.

Athletes are expected to arrive in Lagos on June 19, and they will leave on June 23.

To help the athletes, the AFN said they will provide accommodation for those who meet the required standards during the qualification period. The names of these athletes will be shared soon.

The trials are likely to draw many of Nigeria’s top track and field stars, as well as new talents eager to join the national team.

As one of Africa's traditional athletics powerhouses, Nigeria anticipates fierce competition for the few slots available for the Glasgow Games.

AFN President Tonobok Okowa urged fans and athletics stakeholders to support the athletes during the trials. He called the trials a key step in Nigeria’s preparation for the Commonwealth Games.

Mr. Okowa also praised the National Sports Commission (NSC) for its ongoing support of the federation. He noted that this support has helped improve athletics and boost the performance of elite athletes.

With the countdown to Glasgow 2026 in full swing, all eyes are now on Lagos. Nigeria’s track and field athletes are ready to turn their hard work into Commonwealth Games spots and the chance to represent Nigeria on a grand stage.